Christopher Gierhart, a 50-year-old Navy veteran, died Sunday while attempting to rescue his 10-year-old son from a house fire in Hollywood, Maryland. The blaze, which engulfed the family’s home, is suspected to have been caused by fireworks used earlier that evening as part of July Fourth celebrations.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, initial reports indicated that Gierhart re-entered the burning residence in an effort to find his son, who, unknown to him, had already escaped safely. Firefighters discovered Gierhart deceased on the second floor after extinguishing the fire. The child’s safe escape was later confirmed by emergency responders.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the fire may have started due to the family’s use of ground-based sparkler fireworks. The fire marshal’s office noted the ongoing nature of the investigation as authorities work to establish the exact circumstances that led to the blaze.

Gierhart is survived by his fiancée, Lauren Copenhaver. The community has mourned the loss of the veteran, highlighting the tragic circumstances surrounding his death as he acted to protect his family. The incident underscores the potential hazards associated with fireworks and calls attention to the importance of fire safety during holiday celebrations.