In brief
A violent fire broke out near Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, Alberta, killing and injuring several people. Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed casualties but withheld numbers and called the situation ‘very, very active and delicate’. The military and local authorities are investigating the cause as the blaze spread rapidly under high winds. Prime Minister Mark Carney offered his thoughts to the affected personnel, while residents were urged to avoid the area.
Deadly Fire Engulfs Canadian Military Base, Casualties Confirmed
A large blaze that erupted near Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta has killed and injured several people, the Defence Minister said, without giving exact numbers. The Canadian Armed Forces were working with local authorities to control the fire and were looking into its cause, Mr McGuinty described the situation as "very, very active and delicate".
Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on X that a "serious incident creating a major fire" had occurred, adding his "thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected". Mr McGuinty could not recall a similar incident in recent memory.
Canadian Forces Base Wainwright is one of the country’s busiest training grounds. The blaze spread rapidly due to high winds and tore through the base’s fences, according to the Municipal District of Wainwright. Authorities first posted about the incident at about 17:30 local time, though the exact start time remains unclear.
Local authorities have urged residents to avoid the area and give emergency vehicles right of way. Firefighters and military units continue to work into the night to contain the flames and prevent further damage.
