Matthew Sellars, Maryville Man Dies in Fourth of July Fireworks Accident in Greenback

A tragic fireworks accident claimed the life of a Maryville man on the Fourth of July in Greenback, according to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO). The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Evergreen Farms Lane, where deputies responded to a call about an unconscious individual following a fireworks mishap.

Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found three people attempting to revive the man through CPR. Despite their efforts and those of the deputies who took over, the victim, identified as 35-year-old Matthew Sellars, was pronounced dead at 10:30 p.m. The BCSO’s report revealed that Sellars had sustained a significant chest wound as a result of a fireworks explosion.

One of the witnesses present at the time recounted the incident to the deputies. They were handling fireworks manually when one exploded, causing a severe injury to Sellars’ chest. The witness saw Sellars collapse to the ground, bleeding heavily from the wound. The incident report further detailed that Sellars had a large hole in his chest and a cut on his right hand.

Sellars was immediately transported to Blount Memorial Hospital by AMR, where he was officially declared deceased at 10:30 p.m. The BCSO described the incident as both “sad and unfortunate,” underscoring the dangers associated with handling fireworks.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards involved in the use of fireworks, especially when not handled with extreme caution. The BCSO’s response highlights the critical importance of emergency services and their efforts to provide life-saving measures, even in the face of tragic outcomes.

The community is left mourning the loss of Matthew Sellars, and this incident has undoubtedly cast a shadow over what is typically a celebratory holiday. It is a poignant example of how quickly festivities can turn tragic and underscores the need for safety and vigilance during such events.

The Blount County Sheriff’s Office continues to stress the importance of handling fireworks responsibly and adhering to safety guidelines to prevent such devastating accidents. Their investigation into the incident will provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of Matthew Sellars during this incredibly difficult time. The community stands with them, offering support and solidarity in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.