Full Breakdown
Explosion at Boonville Church Leaves Five Injured
2/18/2026, 12:09:01 AM
Incident Overview
On February 17, 2026, a significant explosion occurred at the Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville, New York, injuring five individuals, including a firefighter. The explosion took place shortly before 10:30 a.m. local time, following reports of a gas odor in the building. Eyewitness accounts and images from the scene depicted the church engulfed in flames shortly after the blast.
Details of the Explosion
Emergency crews were dispatched to the church on State Route 12 after church leaders reported an "obvious gas leak." Pastor Brandon Pitts and a congregation member were present in the building at the time, having called a propane company to address the suspected leak. The explosion occurred while a Boonville firefighter was entering the church, resulting in "catastrophic damage" to the structure, which is now considered destroyed.
Five individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment, with one firefighter and one civilian reported in critical condition. The other three victims sustained injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. The injured included:
- Brandon Pitts, 43, Pastor of Abundant Life Fellowship Church
- David Pritchard Jr., 60, Boonville Fire Chief
- Allan Austin, 67, Boonville Fire Department
- Nicholas Amicucci, 43, Boonville Fire Department
- Richard Czajka, 71, Boonville Fire Department
Ongoing Investigation
The New York State Police are investigating the cause of the explosion, which is believed to have been triggered by the church's propane heating system. Authorities have stated there is no indication of criminal activity at this time. The investigation continues with assistance from the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Uniform Force.
Official Statements & Community Response
In a Facebook post, the church expressed gratitude for the community's support and requested prayers for the injured, particularly for Pastor Brandon and his wife, MaeLeah. Oneida County Executive Anthony Picenete expressed his sorrow over the incident, commending the bravery of first responders who rushed to the scene.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also addressed the situation on social media, stating that state fire and emergency personnel were on-site and praying for the recovery of those injured.
Criticism & Opposition
While the church has focused on recovery and support for the victims, some community members have raised concerns about safety protocols regarding gas leaks and the adequacy of emergency response measures in such situations.
Traffic and Emergency Response
In the aftermath of the explosion, Route 12 was closed in both directions between Potato Hill Road and Kerwin Road, with motorists advised to seek alternate routes. Multiple fire departments and emergency services, including Boonville Ambulance and Northstar air units, responded to the scene to assist with the situation.
Conclusion
The explosion at the Abundant Life Fellowship Church has left a significant impact on the Boonville community, prompting an ongoing investigation and raising questions about safety measures related to gas leaks. As the community rallies around the injured, the focus remains on recovery and support for those affected.
