February 23, 2026
FROM NYSP: The New York State Police continue to investigate the explosion that occurred this morning 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 following reports of a gas odor inside the church. The preliminary investigation indicates that four individuals were in the church’s basement when the furnace activated, triggering an explosion. One firefighter was on the first floor attempting to ventilate the building at the time of the explosion and was thrown against a wall.
Five individuals were transported for medical treatment.
The injured individuals are identified as:
David Pritchard Jr., age 60, Boonville Fire Chief, transported to Upstate Hospital.
Brandon Pitts, age 43, Pastor of the church, transported to Upstate Hospital.
Allan Austin, age 67, Boonville Fire Department, transported to Wynn Hospital.
Nicholas Amicucci, age 43, Boonville Fire Department, transported to Upstate Hospital.
Richard Czajka, age 71, Boonville Fire Department, transported to Upstate Hospital.
Hospital officials advise that all five individuals are currently listed in critical but stable condition.
The church sustained catastrophic damage and is considered destroyed.
There is no indication of criminal activity at this time. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Members of the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation are present at the hospitals and on scene, along with Uniform Force personnel.
