Bonneville, New York– A fiery explosion rocked a church in upstate New York on Tuesday, injuring five people, including a firefighter who was severely burned while responding to reports of the smell of gas in the building, officials said.
New York State Police are investigating the cause of the explosion, which occurred around 10:30 a.m. at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in a rural area about 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Syracuse.
Five people were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Two were listed in critical condition, including the firefighter who rushed to the scene. The remaining three people are being treated for injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, police said.
Police said there was no initial indication of criminal activity related to the explosion, which sent thick plumes of black smoke into the air and caused serious damage to the church.
The church was reportedly heated with propane cylinders, according to state troopers.