Serious incident at Alberta military base causes deaths, injuries as Canada officials track fire
Deaths and injuries reported
Canada’s defence minister said Saturday that people had died and others were injured in an incident at CFB Wainwright, a major military training site in Alberta. The minister described conditions as “active and delicate” and said officials were watching the fire closely. He also said he could not recall a similar incident in recent memory.
Fire spreads beyond base
The Municipal District of Wainwright said the fire passed over the base’s fence earlier Saturday and was moving rapidly because of high winds. Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions were responding. No evacuation order had been issued, according to the district.
Officials urge caution
Prime Minister Mark Carney said a serious incident had led to a major fire at CFB Wainwright. The base is about 180km southeast of Edmonton. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre urged residents in the area to obey emergency directions and leave roads open for first responders. He also posted, “Pray for Wainwright, everyone.”
Base trains Canadian soldiers
CFB Wainwright is among Canada’s busiest military training bases, where soldiers prepare for combat operations. It houses the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre, which runs battlefield exercises, and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre, which provides military instruction.
Key points
- People were killed and injured in the incident, Canada’s defence minister said.
- The fire spread beyond CFB Wainwright’s fence amid high winds.
- Fire crews from multiple jurisdictions responded, with no evacuation order in effect.
- The base is about 180km southeast of Edmonton and hosts two military training centres.