Canada military base tragedy: fast-moving grass fire caused four deaths, while its origin remains unclear
Fire swept through training area
The fire broke out at about 4pm on Saturday during high-intensity combat training at CFB Wainwright, one of Canada’s busiest military training bases. It swept into the area where simulated attacks were taking place, involving Charlie Company of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.
Winds reached 96km/h, feeding the blaze as it crossed established firebreaks. Municipal firefighters helped contain it. One person at a news conference in Edmonton said the fire had moved a kilometre in 36 seconds after the wind shifted.
Four soldiers identified
Smith said 39 people were in hospital on Sunday evening, with at least 19 in critical condition. She said many of the injured would need weeks or months of specialised, intensive medical care.
Emergency response underway
The Canadian armed forces said its immediate priority was notifying next of kin and helping people affected by the fire. Military, federal, provincial and local authorities were coordinating the response, while Wainwright provided hospital and firefighting support.
Officials pay tribute
Smith described the fire as heartbreaking. Officials have not provided details about what caused it. CFB Wainwright hosts the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre.
Key points
- Four soldiers died and 39 people were in hospital after the fire at CFB Wainwright.
- At least 19 injured people were in critical condition, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said.
- Winds reached 96km/h, and the blaze crossed established firebreaks before being contained.
- Officials have not provided details about what caused the fire.