Canned food identified as cause of explosion that injured 6 at state fair

Opened canned food with various veggies and legumes featured.
A can overheated causing an explosion that hospitalized two.
Getty Images

An explosion that injured six people at the Kansas State Fair was caused by a canned food item that got too hot when stored near a food warmer, investigators said Wednesday.

The explosion happened Tuesday night at a concession trailer called the Fry Shack. Authorities said two people were hospitalized after the explosion and fire. Both were treated for cuts and were discharged later Tuesday.

Four others reported injuries but did not seek medical treatment.

The cause of the fire was determined by investigators with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Hutchinson Fire Department.

The 10-day state fair draws about 350,000 people each year. It concludes Sunday.

Fortune Global Forum returns Oct. 26–27, 2025 in Riyadh. CEOs and global leaders will gather for a dynamic, invitation-only event shaping the future of business. Apply for an invitation.