In Short:
– Fatalities and injuries confirmed after a fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta.
– The incident is under investigation by the military and local authorities.
Fatalities and injuries were confirmed after a fire at a military base in Alberta, according to Defense Minister David McGuinty.He expressed sadness and reported the tragic incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, located about 210 km (130 miles) east of Edmonton.
Fatalities confirmed
Details on the number of casualties or fire causes have not been released.
The fire was still active on Saturday evening.
McGuinty noted that he could not recall a similar incident recently.
The Canadian military and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police are investigating.
Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the federal government is coordinating with Alberta and local authorities.
CFB Wainwright had 1,310 personnel stationed there as of 2021.
The nearby town of Wainwright has a population of about 6,600.
Local authorities reported the fire had crossed the base fence, but no evacuations were ordered.
General Jennie Carignan, Canada’s Defense Staff chief, stated that the forces are working closely with various government levels.
“Our priority remains the welfare of our members, their families and their community,” she noted.
Investigation ongoing
The situation continues to develop as authorities assess the extent of damages.
Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.
Future reports will provide more clarity on casualties and safety measures.