Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): A major fire broke out at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta following an incident that left multiple people dead and others injured, prompting a coordinated emergency response involving military personnel and authorities from several levels of government.
Canada’s Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed the deaths and injuries in a statement on Saturday but did not disclose the number of casualties or the cause of the incident. He described the situation as active and delicate, adding that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had joined the investigation.
The Canadian Armed Forces are working alongside federal, provincial and municipal agencies to respond to the emergency. The nearby community of Wainwright has also been providing hospital services and firefighting assistance.
According to the Municipal District of Wainwright, the fire crossed the military base’s perimeter fence earlier Saturday and was spreading rapidly because of strong winds. Fire crews from multiple jurisdictions were deployed to contain the blaze. Officials said no evacuation order was in place at the time of the announcement.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed sympathy for those affected, saying the federal government was coordinating closely with Alberta officials and local authorities. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the incident as tragic and acknowledged its impact on military personnel. She also thanked emergency responders and those assisting injured individuals and their families.
Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre said he had spoken with Carney and McGuinty to offer support. He urged residents in the affected area to follow emergency guidance and keep roads clear for first responders.
