A 32-year-old man was killed and three firefighters were injured in a late-night house fire Sunday in southwest Canton that also displaced 10 residents, authorities said.
The Canton Fire Department responded at about 9:26 p.m. Sunday to a reported residential structure fire at a two-and-a-half-story home in the 1000 block of Fifth Street SW. Initial reports indicated the residence was occupied at the time.
When crews arrived, heavy fire was coming from the front of the home. Power lines were sparking, and flames were extending toward and impinging on a neighboring structure, officials said. Firefighters began suppression efforts on the primary residence while also working to protect the adjacent building and conducting a search for occupants.
After about an hour of firefighting operations, the blaze was largely brought under control. During a primary search of the residence, firefighters located a deceased adult male on the first floor.
The victim was identified as Brian Shackleford Jr., 32, according to Harry Campbell, chief investigator with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.
The neighboring building sustained significant fire damage and has been deemed uninhabitable. Ten occupants were displaced as a result of the fire and are being assisted by the American Red Cross.
Three firefighters were injured during the incident. All were treated and remained on duty, according to fire officials.
Due to significant structural damage, certain areas of the building could not be thoroughly searched overnight. Fire officials said a more comprehensive search would be conducted during daylight hours using drones to ensure no additional victims are present.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
