AKRON, Ohio — Timothy Christian, a 43-year-old Akron man, has been sentenced to 22-26 years in prison for causing a house fire that injured two firefighters.
The fire happened on Aug. 15, 2022, at a home on Winton Avenue near Vernon Odom Boulevard in Akron. The firefighters were hurt after officials say the home exploded.
Christian pled guilty to the following charges on Feb. 9:
- Aggravated arson
- Complicity in the commission of an offense
- Conspiracy
- Four counts of felonious assault
During the sentencing, Summit County Common Pleas Court Judge Jennifer Towell also designated Christian as an arson offender, which means that once he is released from prison, he will have to register with the local sheriff for life.
Summit County Prosecutor Elliott Kolkvoich said that investigators discovered gas cannisters purchased by Christian and co-defendant Stanley Winchester. Additionally, Christian lived at the Winton Avenue home.
“Two firefighters suffered significant injuries because Timothy Christian directed Stanley Winchester to set fire to his home. I’m pleased to know the public is safer with him behind bars for a long time,” said Prosecutor Kolkovich. “My heart goes out to the injured firefighters who put their lives on the line while trying to save others.”
On Aug. 17, 2023, 69-year-old Winchester of Akron pled guilty to the following charges:
- Aggravated arson
- Two Counts of felonious assault
Winchester is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15 at 2 p.m.