From devastation to determination, the heart of O'Neill one year later

O'Neill, Neb. – Around 6 a.m. on October 7th, 2024, Father Bernard Starmam was awakened by what he initially thought were sounds of nature. “At first I thought a lighting trick was close," Father Starmam recalled. "I laid in bed for a minute and thought, that wasn’t lighting.”

Later that day, law enforcement officials reported that a vehicle had struck a gas line, causing a major explosion that severely damaged the local school, hospital, and demolished the St. Patrick's Parish Hall.

Even a year later, amidst the wreckage of decades of memories and the involuntary uprooting of students, Father Starmam still reflects with a heavy heart. “I’m not a guy that gets real emotional, but this one gets me,” he shared.

After assessing the school's charred remains, fire marshals initially declared the structure a total loss. Fortunately, structural engineers determined that the building could be saved, though it would require a multi-million dollar investment.

With school canceled due to the devastation, Father Starmam witnessed an outpouring of support as the community rallied to provide a lifeline that kept students focused on their studies. Pre-K through first grade were housed in the former public school administration building, grades 2-6 were able to use Faith Community Church classrooms, and grades 7-12 utilized the Northeast Community College’s O’Neill campus.

Now that the school is back on its normal schedule, it boasts new ceilings, windows, furniture, and remodeled bathrooms. Father Starmam hopes this situation inspires others to extend kindness and support to those in need. “When the chips are down, there are no barriers; we just do what we have to do to help out our neighbors."

With the school and hospital near full recovery, the St. Patrick Parish Hall is currently working on plans for a new building and will disseminate more information to social media once the building plans are approved by the archdiocese and archbishop.