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.
Local News
Tater Johnson killed after bus carrying Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team rolled over in Calhoun County
CALHOUN COUNTY, Iowa — One person has died and multiple others were injured following a rollover bus crash on Highway 4 in Calhoun County, Iowa, according to the Iowa State Patrol. Officials later identified the victim as 19-year-old Tater Johnson of Rapid City, South Dakota.
The accident occurred at approximately 11:06 a.m., when the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls reporting that a bus operated by Iowa Lakes Community College had crashed.
A state trooper arrived at the scene within minutes, the Calhoun County Emergency Management Agency said in a release.
Preliminary findings indicate the bus left the roadway and overturned into a ditch. Authorities confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the incident.
A total of 33 individuals were on board at the time of the crash, and officials confirmed that all occupants were accounted for.
Given the number of victims, emergency responders declared a Mass Casualty Incident, prompting a large-scale response from local fire departments, emergency medical services, and law enforcement agencies.
Thirty-two passengers were triaged at the scene and transported to several area hospitals. Injuries were reported to range from minor to serious, and multiple medical helicopters were requested to assist with the rapid transport of critically injured patients.
Officials also clarified that six occupants traveling in a separate Iowa Lakes van were not involved in the crash.
Iowa Lakes Community College confirmed that members of its baseball team were aboard the bus at the time of the accident. The team was traveling to Arkansas for a scheduled game against the North Arkansas Pioneers.
In a statement, the college said it would not immediately release additional names or details but emphasized that institutional leaders are working closely with local authorities to gather more information.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority,” the college said. “The College is actively supporting those affected and communicating directly with families.”
Iowa Highway 4 was closed in both directions following the crash, which occurred just north of the Twin Lakes area, as emergency crews worked to treat victims and secure the scene.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol.
U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra, who represents Iowa’s 4th Congressional District, expressed concern following the incident.
“I am deeply concerned about this accident and grateful to our local law enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, first responders, and medical professionals who have been quickly responding at the scene,” Feenstra said.
The North Arkansas Pioneers also released a statement on social media offering support to those impacted.
“We ask our entire community to please lift up everyone involved, their families, and the entire Iowa Lakes community in prayer during this difficult time.”
Authorities are expected to release additional updates as the investigation progresses.