Canton firefighters identify men hurt in house explosion
Cleveland 19 News
Last updated: August 5, 2026
Canton firefighters have identified the two men injured in a recent house explosion. This follows the incident where a house exploded, leading to the hospitalization of two individuals.
- Two men, identified as William S. Johnson, 55, and Michael D. Flesher, 49, were hospitalized following a house explosion. The explosion occurred at 1017 17th St. NW in Canton. Both men suffered burns and were transported to Canton-based hospitals. Johnson was taken to Aultman Hospital, while Flesher was transported to Mercy Medical Center. Initial reports indicate that both men were found outside the residence after the explosion. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Canton Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal's Office. The extent of their injuries is not specified, but they were stable at the time of transport. The residence sustained significant damage as a result of the blast. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene after receiving multiple calls reporting the explosion.
