A devastating house explosion occurred in the Town of Oneonta, New York, on the evening of December 9, 2023, resulting in severe damage to multiple residences and at least one fatality. The incident was reported at approximately 5:30 p.m. local time, with the Oneonta Fire Department and multiple mutual aid departments responding to the scene at 18 Richards Avenue.
Upon arrival, first responders found one house completely leveled by the explosion, another with severe damage, and a third fully engulfed in flames. The area of Chestnut Street and Richards Avenue was designated as an active emergency incident scene, and residents were advised to avoid the area.
The cause of the explosion and fire is under investigation. There are no further reports of injuries at this time. The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office and other emergency services continue to work at the scene.
