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State Police Investigating Explosion at Boonville
Church
Published: February 17, 2026
at 12:25 p.m.
By: Media Release
from New York State Police
State Police Investigating Explosion at Boonville
Church
The New York
State Police are investigating an explosion that occurred at the Abundant
Life Fellowship church located on the 4930 block
of State Route 12 in the Town of Boonville, Oneida County.
At approximately
10:23 a.m., first responders were dispatched after reports of a gas odor
inside the church.
Preliminary
investigation indicates that civilians inside the building reported
smelling gas prior to the explosion.
A member of the
Boonville Fire Department entered the structure during the response. While
inside, an explosion occurred. A total of five individuals were transported
to Wynn Hospital in Utica for treatment. Two individuals, a Boonville
Firefighter and a civilian, are listed in critical condition. The remaining
three individuals are being treated for injuries that are not believed to
be life-threatening at this time.
The church
sustained catastrophic damage.
At
this time, there is no indication of criminal activity. The
church was reportedly heated by propane cylinders. The exact cause of the
explosion remains under investigation.
Members of the
New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Uniform Force
remain on scene assisting with the investigation.
Fire department
activity continues on State Route 12 in both
directions at Potato Hill Road in Boonville. All lanes remain blocked.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Updates will be
provided as more information becomes available.
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