Akron man faces up to 26 years in prison for arson for fire that injured firefighters
An Akron man faces up to 26 years in prison for setting a fire in September 2022 that injured two firefighters.
Summit County Common Pleas Court Judge Jennifer Towell handed down the sentence of 22 to 26 years in prison to Timothy Christian, 43, of Winton Avenue in Akron, on Monday.
As part of the sentencing, Towell labeled Christian as an arson offender meaning once released from prison he will have to register his address with the local sheriff for life.
A month ago, Christian pled guilty to a number of felony charges including aggravated arson, complicity in the commission of an offense, conspiracy and felonious assault.
The case dates back to an Aug. 15, 2022, arson fire in a home on Winton Avenue near Vernon Odom Boulevard.
Prosecutors say two firefighters were injured when the home exploded as they entered the residence.
After the fire, investigators found gas cannisters that had been purchased by Christian and co-defendant Stanley Winchester, 69, of Akron.
Christian lived in the Winton Avenue home.
“Two firefighters suffered significant injuries because Timothy Christian directed Stanley Winchester toset fire to his home. I’m pleased to know the public is safer with him behind bars for a long time,” saidProsecutor Kolkovich in a statement. “My heart goes out to the injured firefighters who put their lives on the line while trying to save others.”
On Aug. 17, 2023, Winchester, who had agreed to testify at Christian's trial, pled guilty to charges of aggravated arson and felonious assault.
Winchester is slated to be sentenced April 15.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron arsonist Timothy Christian sentenced to 26 years for fire
