There have been fatalities and injuries after a 'serious incident' at a Canadian military base. There were reports of a possible explosion at the military base CFB Wainwright in Alberta that caused a major fire on Saturday, October 17 at around 4pm local time.
“I’m saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base,” Defence Minister David McGuinty said.
While McGuinty did not provide casualty figures or details about what caused the incident, it's understood more information will come to light soon. He said the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were involved in the investigation and described the situation as “very, very active and delicate.”
The Canadian Armed Forces and federal, provincial and local authorities were coordinating the emergency response, he said. The nearby community of Wainwright was providing hospital and firefighting support.
There have been numerous reports of an 'explosion' which then sparked a huge fire, which spread quickly due to high winds in the area.
The Municipal District of Wainwright said the fire had crossed the military base’s perimeter fence and was spreading rapidly in high winds. Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions were responding, and no evacuation order was in effect.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said his province was sending assistance to Alberta but did not specify what resources were being deployed.
“Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected,” Prime Minister Mark Carney said earlier in a social media post.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the fire as “significant and tragic” and said it was affecting many military personnel.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney wrote on X: "A serious incident creating a major fire has occurred at CFB Wainwright, in Alberta. Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected. We are working closely with the Government of Alberta and local authorities. Premier Smith and I are in close contact as are our relevant ministers and officials."
Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, about 180 kilometers (112 miles) southeast of Edmonton, is one of Canada’s busiest military training bases, where soldiers prepare for combat operations. It is home to the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre, which conducts realistic battlefield exercises, and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre, which provides military training.
Carney said the federal government was working closely with Alberta officials and local authorities. He said he and Smith were in close contact, as were their ministers and officials.
Smith thanked first responders and those providing care and support to those affected.
Canadian Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre said he had spoken with Carney and the defence minister to offer support to those affected by the fire.
“Pray for Wainwright, everyone,” Poilievre said in a social media post. He urged people in the area to follow emergency instructions and keep roads clear for first responders.
