A powerful blast ripped through a Boonville church Tuesday morning, injuring four firefighters and a pastor, according to Spectrum News 1. Crews had responded to Abundant Life Fellowship on Route 12 around 10:23 a.m. after people inside reported smelling gas.
Investigators say four people stood in the basement when the furnace kicked on and triggered the explosion. The force hurled a firefighter against a wall and leveled the building, causing catastrophic damage.
Officials transported five people to area hospitals, including Fire Chief David Pritchard Jr. and Pastor Brandon Pitts. Authorities first reported critical injuries but later said everyone was stable. State Police continue to investigate and say they see no signs of criminal activity.
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