Boonville Church Explosion Sends Five to Hospital, Route 12 Closed as Investigation Continues

BOONVILLE, N.Y. — A powerful explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in the Village of Boonville on Monday morning left five people critically injured, prompted major road closures, and caused catastrophic damage to the building, according to authorities.

New York State Police said first responders were dispatched to the church, located on the 4930 block of State Route 12, at approximately 10:23 a.m. after individuals inside reported the smell of gas. During the emergency response, a member of the Boonville Fire Department entered the structure, and an explosion occurred while firefighters were inside.

Five Hospitalized Following Boonville Church Explosion

State Police identified the injured as:

• David Pritchard Jr., 60, Boonville Fire Chief

• Brandon Pitts, 43, pastor of Abundant Life Fellowship Church

• Allan Austin, 67, Boonville Fire Department

• Nicholas Amicucci, 43, Boonville Fire Department

• Richard Czajka, 71, Boonville Fire Department

Four of the injured were transported to Upstate University Hospital, while one individual was taken to Wynn Hospital. Hospital officials report all five patients are currently listed in critical but stable condition.

Investigation Ongoing, No Criminal Activity Suspected

Officials stated the church was heated by propane cylinders, though the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Authorities emphasized that, at this time, there is no indication of criminal activity related to the incident.

County Executive Responds

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente released a statement expressing sympathy and support for those affected.

“I am deeply saddened by the explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church and am praying for all those impacted,” Picente 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.”

Picente added that Oneida County remains in close communication with local officials and emergency services and stands ready to provide assistance as the investigation continues.

Route 12 Closed in Boonville

As emergency operations and the investigation continue, New York State Route 12 remains closed in both directions. Southbound Route 12 is shut down at Potato Hill Road, while northbound traffic is closed at Kerwin Road in the Town of Boonville. Officials say the duration of the closure is currently unknown.

Motorists are urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes to allow emergency crews and investigators to continue their work safely.

Authorities say additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.