In brief
A sudden and severe fire in the western Canadian capital of Alberta has claimed the lives of several soldiers and wounded several others, all officials say. The Canadian Armed Forces, together with local emergency services, rushed to control the blaze and are working to identify its source. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Defence Minister David McGuinty both expressed their solidarity with the wounded and families of the deceased, while the local municipality urged residents to stay clear of the area. High winds are thought to have played a key role in hastening the spread of the flames, forced the base’s fencing to give way, and created dangerous conditions for responders. Officials remain uncertain about immediate casualties and are warning that more information will emerge as the investigation proceeds.
Deadly fire breaks out at Canada military base
A large fire near a Canadian military base in Alberta has killed and injured some people, the defence minister said, without confirming the number of casualties.
The Canadian Armed Forces were working with local authorities to manage the fire and were looking into what caused it, David McGuinty said, describing the situation as very, very active and delicate.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said on X that a serious incident creating a major fire had occurred, adding his thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected.
Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, where the blaze erupted, is one of the country’s busiest military training bases.
The wildfire spread rapidly because of high winds and tore through the fences of the base, the Municipal District of Wainwright said.
McGuinty told reporters he cannot recall an incident like this in recent memory.
It is unclear when the fire started, but the district first posted about the incident around 17:30 local time.
Local authorities have urged residents to avoid the area and give all emergency vehicles right of way.
