Local News
Seven killed, one survived in Bangor plane crash
Seven passengers were killed and one crew member survived following a plane crash Sunday night at Bangor International Airport in Maine, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The aircraft involved was a Bombardier Challenger 650 business jet that crashed while attempting to take off from the airport shortly before 8:00 p.m. local time.
The jet, which was owned by Arnold & Itkin LLP, a Houston-based law firm, was carrying a total of eight people at the time of the accident.
Officials initially stated that the conditions of those on board were unknown; however, the FAA later confirmed that seven passengers were fatally injured and that one crew member survived.
Flight records indicate the aircraft departed Houston earlier in the day and arrived at Bangor International Airport at approximately 6:09 p.m.
The crash occurred less than two hours later during a subsequent takeoff attempt. It remains unclear why the aircraft was preparing to depart again so soon after landing.
Bangor International Airport confirmed at 8:25 p.m. that an incident involving an aircraft was under investigation and stated that emergency responders were actively working at the scene.
Airport officials urged the public to avoid the area, noting that the runway had been closed as a result of the crash.
Images from the scene showed a significant emergency response on the runway, with smoke visible in the vicinity of the aircraft.
Weather conditions at the time included heavy snow, though authorities have not confirmed whether weather played a role in the incident. Several local residents reported hearing a loud boom and described what sounded like an explosion at the time of the crash.
According to aviation tracking data, the aircraft is registered to Arnold & Itkin LLP. It has not been confirmed whether any employees or representatives of the law firm were among the passengers.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have announced that they will conduct a joint investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Local News
Multiple people injured after gas explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville
BOONVILLE, N.Y. — Multiple emergency agencies responded Tuesday morning to reports of a gas odor and a possible explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church, located at 12644 State Route 12 in Boonville.
According to Oneida County 911 dispatch, the initial call was received at approximately 10:23 a.m. on February 17.
Callers reported smelling gas inside the building, followed by what was described as a possible explosion.
A large-scale emergency response was immediately initiated. Fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical units from several surrounding communities were dispatched to the scene, including the Boonville Fire Department, Boonville Ambulance, Remsen Fire Department, Barneveld Fire Department, Stittville Fire Department, Forestport Fire Department, and Kuyahoora Ambulance.
Law enforcement agencies responding included the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police.
Additional medical support was provided by Northstar Ambulance, AmCare Ambulance, and Oneida County Emergency Services.
Reports indicate that six ambulances and two medical helicopters were requested to assist at the scene, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
As of this time, officials have not released confirmed information regarding injuries, the extent of structural damage, or the cause of the reported explosion.
Emergency personnel remain on-site conducting assessments and ensuring the safety of the area.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.