An explosion at a church in upstate New York on Tuesday resulted in injuries to five individuals as firefighters were investigating a reported gas leak that led to the complete destruction of the building.
The incident at Abundant Life Church in Booneville occurred around 10:30 a.m., shortly after two church members detected a gas odor and contacted a propane service. Firefighters arrived on the scene, and officials reported that four of them were in the basement when the propane furnace was activated, triggering the explosion. A fifth firefighter, who was on the first floor attempting to ventilate the structure, was thrown against a wall.
Four members of the Boonville Fire Department, along with the church’s 43-year-old pastor, Brandon Pitts, were transported to the hospital. Fortunately, all five were reported to be in critical but stable condition.
“I’ve heard he’s being treated for second-degree burns, but he’s conscious and even joking with the hospital staff. That’s typical of him,” Pitts shared on the church’s Facebook page.
The page further mentioned, “Our building is a total loss.” It also expressed gratitude that the explosion occurred when there were not many people present, unlike during Sunday services.
County Executive Anthony Picente commended the bravery of the first responders, stating, “Our thoughts are especially with the injured Boonville firefighters and church members. We commend their courage and professionalism as they rushed to protect others in danger.”
The injured firefighters included David Pritchard Jr., 60, Fire Chief; Alan Austin, 67; Nicholas Amicucci, 43; and Richard Tsaika, 71.
Initially, plans to airlift the injured to a hospital were scrapped due to heavy fog grounding helicopters.
Approximately 80 firefighters from neighboring stations were summoned to assist at the scene. Booneville is situated around 90 miles northeast of Syracuse.
The church building was established in 1999, while Abundant Life itself was founded in 1985.
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First publication date is February 18, 2026.
