Staff Report / April 24, 2026
A 15-year-old boy remains in critical condition following a gasoline-fueled explosion Thursday morning in Ontario County, according to authorities.
Emergency crews were called to a residence on Little Church Road in the hamlet of Stanley around 9 a.m. for reports of a severe burn injury. Investigators say the teen poured gasoline onto an outdoor fire, which ignited and caused an explosion that set him on fire.
Officials reported the teen suffered partial-thickness burns across a large portion of his body. He was airlifted by Mercy Flight Central to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was admitted to the intensive care burn unit.
A 51-year-old woman, identified as Kristen Wildrick, was also injured while attempting to extinguish the flames. She sustained burns to her arm and foot and was transported by ambulance for treatment.
Multiple emergency agencies, including local fire departments, responded to the scene. Following an investigation, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office determined the incident was accidental and not considered suspicious.
Authorities are reminding the public of the dangers associated with using gasoline near open flames, noting how quickly such situations can escalate into life-threatening emergencies.
