Gas Leak Reported Before Explosion
Pastor Brandon Pitts and an unnamed member of the congregation had contacted a propane company earlier regarding what was described in a church Facebook message as “an obvious gas leak.”
According to the post, the pastor, the congregant and several responders were inside the building when the explosion occurred. The message indicated that those injured suffered burns requiring medical treatment but expressed optimism about their physical recovery.
The church was reportedly heated by propane cylinders. Authorities have not determined the precise cause of the blast, and investigators stressed that there is currently no indication of criminal activity.
Investigation Ongoing; Roads Closed
Members of the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Uniform Force remain at the scene, assisting local responders in determining what triggered the explosion.
Fire department operations continued Tuesday afternoon along State Route 12 at Potato Hill Road. All lanes were closed as emergency crews worked amid debris and unstable conditions. Motorists were urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
In a matter of moments, the quiet rhythm of a weekday morning gave way to sirens and smoke. As investigators sift through the wreckage, the community now waits — shaken but hopeful — for answers in the wake of the Abundant Life Church explosion.
