At least five people, including a firefighter, were injured after an explosion tore through a church in upstate New York on Tuesday, local media reported, citing authorities. Two victims were reported to be in critical condition and the building was largely destroyed.
Emergency crews were called to Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville after reports of a gas odour inside the building. Witnesses told investigators they had smelled gas before the blast. The explosion occurred while responders were already at the scene, according to Newsweek.
GAS LEAK REPORTED BEFORE BLAST
According to a church statement, the pastor and another congregant had contacted a propane supplier earlier to report a suspected gas leak inside the building. Both were among those hurt in the explosion, the statement said, describing the situation as still developing.
Authorities said the church was heated by propane cylinders and sustained “catastrophic” damage in the blast. Officials added there was no immediate indication of criminal activity.
The church structure was left smouldering and appeared destroyed after the explosion. Multiple fire departments from surrounding areas responded to the incident.
State Route 12 near the church was closed in both directions as crews secured the area to continue their investigation.
