New York church explosion from suspected gas leak leaves five critically injured

A suspected gas leak triggered a powerful explosion at Abundant Life Church in Boonville, upstate New York Tuesday, leaving five individuals in critical but stable condition, according to local emergency services. The blast occurred at approximately 10:45 am local time, roughly 20 minutes after the Boonville Fire Department responded to reports of a strong gas odor at the facility.

First Responders Among Injured

New York State Police confirmed that a firefighter had entered the structure during the emergency response when the explosion occurred. The five injured include the Boonville fire chief, the church pastor, and three additional members of the Boonville Fire Department, all of whom sustained burns requiring immediate hospitalization. A church member posted on Facebook that the pastor and another congregant had contacted a propane company about "an obvious gas leak" shortly before the explosion, and were inside with responders at the time of the blast.

Extensive Damage and Investigation

About 15 minutes after the explosion, the building was "nearly fully engulfed in flames and smoke," according to witness accounts. Police described the damage to the church as "catastrophic" while stating there is currently no indication of criminal activity. The cause of the explosion remains undetermined and under investigation by authorities. Local news outlets reported rescue personnel were dispatched immediately following the blast, with victims transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of their injuries.