Four Canadian soldiers have been killed and 39 others injured after a grass fire spread rapidly through a military training area at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta, Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, addressing the nation from Ottawa on Sunday, described the incident as “one of the worst tragedies for the forces on Canadian soil in peacetime.” He said the country was mourning the soldiers who lost their lives.
The fire broke out at about 4 p.m. local time on Saturday in a grassy area of the base, approximately 210 kilometres east of Edmonton, before strong winds caused it to spread towards a training range.
The fire has since been contained, although fire and rescue teams remain at the scene to prevent further outbreaks.
The four soldiers confirmed dead were identified as Sergeant Morgan Wong, Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding and Private Hayden Lykkemark. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said at least 19 of the 39 injured personnel receiving hospital treatment were in critical condition.
Major-General Wade Rutland said infantry personnel had been conducting high-intensity combat training with live munitions at a grenade range and an attack range when the fire spread towards the area’s administrative facilities.
He said multiple training activities were underway, involving equipment including grenade launchers, grenades, small arms and ammunition.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. However, the Canadian Armed Forces said there were no indications that the incident was linked to terrorism, while Rutland ruled out any apparent connection to oil and gas infrastructure or outside interference.
Emergency medical teams deployed ambulances and air ambulance units to assist victims, with injured personnel transferred to hospitals across Alberta. The fire has placed additional pressure on the province’s healthcare facilities, as officials continue to investigate the incident.
Boluwatife Enome
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