New York Church Explosion Injures Firefighter and Four Others

An explosion at a church in upstate New York left at least five people injured, including a firefighter in critical condition, after a suspected gas leak triggered a powerful blast. The incident occurred at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville on Tuesday and caused catastrophic damage to the building.

Emergency crews had responded to the church after reports of a strong gas odour inside the premises. Witnesses told investigators they had detected the smell of gas prior to the explosion, prompting authorities to treat the situation as a potential leak.

The blast occurred while first responders were already at the scene assessing the situation. Officials said the explosion caused extensive structural damage, leaving the church building largely destroyed and smouldering in the aftermath.

Local authorities confirmed that five individuals were injured in the explosion. Two victims were reported to be in critical condition, including a firefighter who was part of the emergency response team. Others sustained injuries of varying severity and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

According to a statement from church representatives, the pastor and another congregant had earlier contacted a propane supplier to report a suspected gas leak. Both individuals were among those injured in the explosion.

Officials said the church relied on propane cylinders for heating, and investigators are examining whether a propane leak may have triggered the blast. Multiple fire departments from surrounding areas responded to the emergency and worked to secure the site.

Authorities described the damage to the structure as catastrophic. The building was left severely compromised, with debris scattered around the site and smoke continuing to rise hours after the explosion.

State Route 12 near the church was closed in both directions to allow emergency crews to manage the scene and ensure public safety while investigators began assessing the cause.

Officials stated that there is no immediate indication of criminal activity. Investigators are focusing on determining the source of the suspected gas leak and whether safety protocols were followed.

The incident has highlighted the dangers associated with gas leaks and the risks faced by emergency responders who arrive at potentially hazardous scenes.

Authorities urged residents to report gas odours immediately and evacuate affected areas to prevent similar incidents.

Investigations remain ongoing as officials work to determine the exact cause of the explosion and assess structural safety in the surrounding area.