Upstate New York authorities were investigating a fiery explosion at Abundant Life Church in Boonville on Tuesday that injured five people, including the pastor and firefighters who responded after a report of a gas odor in the building.
New York State Police said the blast sent thick plumes of black smoke into the air around 10:30 a.m. at the church, which is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Syracuse. Troopers said the church was reportedly heated by propane cylinders.
Local firefighters were dispatched to the church, and officials said the explosion occurred during a sequence of events involving the building’s heating system. Police said four people were in the basement when the furnace turned on, triggering an explosion.
Officials also said a firefighter on the first floor trying to ventilate the building was thrown against a wall by the blast, according to a preliminary investigation.
Police said Pastor Brandon Pitts, 43, and four members of the Boonville Fire Department, aged 43 to 71, were sent to area hospitals with injuries. All five were listed in critical but stable condition, according to police.
Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente, in a prepared statement, said, “Our thoughts are especially with the Boonville firefighters and church members who were injured. I commend the bravery and professionalism of our first responders who rushed toward danger to protect others,”
Authorities said there was no initial indication of criminal activity related to the explosion. Police said the church sustained catastrophic damage.