Explosion at Upstate New York Church Injures 4 Firefighters and Pastor

Blast at Abundant Life Church in Boonville caused "catastrophic" damage, according to authorities.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A fiery explosion at the Abundant Life Church in Boonville, New York on February 17th injured four firefighters and the church's pastor. The blast occurred shortly before 11 a.m. after first responders arrived at the church to investigate a reported gas odor. The explosion caused "catastrophic" damage to the church, which was heated by propane cylinders. The injured firefighters and pastor were transported to local hospitals and were listed in critical but stable condition.

Why it matters

Church explosions and fires are rare but concerning incidents that can have devastating impacts on local communities. This explosion raises questions about gas safety protocols, emergency response procedures, and the overall security of places of worship in small towns across America.

The details

According to New York State Police, four people were in the church's basement when the furnace activated, triggering the explosion. A firefighter on the first floor attempting to ventilate the building was thrown against a wall by the blast. The Abundant Life Church sustained "catastrophic" damage and was "considered destroyed" following the explosion.

  • The initial call about a gas odor at the church came in around 10:23 a.m. ET on February 17, 2026.
  • The explosion occurred shortly before 11 a.m. ET on February 17, 2026.

The players

New York State Police

The state law enforcement agency investigating the explosion.

Abundant Life Church

The church in Boonville, New York where the explosion occurred.

Pritchard, Pitts, Amicucci and Czajka

The four firefighters injured in the explosion, who were transported to Upstate Hospital in Syracuse.

Austin

The pastor of Abundant Life Church who was injured in the explosion and transported to Wynn Hospital in Utica.

Anthony Picente Jr.

The Oneida County Executive who expressed sadness over the explosion and praised the bravery of first responders.

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What they’re saying

“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. Oneida County is in close communication with local officials and emergency services, and we stand ready to provide any assistance needed as the investigation continues.”

— Anthony Picente Jr., Oneida County Executive (usatoday.com)

What’s next

State police noted that there was no indication of criminal activity in the incident and the investigation remains ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic explosion at a small-town church highlights the importance of robust gas safety protocols, effective emergency response procedures, and the need to ensure the security of places of worship across America, especially in more remote areas.