Adnkronos (Adnkronos) – A large fire broke out at a Canadian Forces base in central-eastern Alberta and spread rapidly due to strong winds on Saturday, causing several deaths and injuries. Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed the fire, saying that "deaths and injuries" had been reported following an incident.
“I am saddened to report that there have been both deaths and injuries as a result of an incident at the base,” identified as Wainright in Alberta, McGuinty told reporters.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said in a post on X that the province had “become aware of a serious and tragic wildfire that is impacting many of our brave service members.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney also stated in a social media post that "a serious incident, resulting in a large-scale fire, has occurred at Wainwright Air Force Base." "Our thoughts are with all the brave men and women affected," Carney wrote. "We are working closely with the Alberta government and local authorities.
Premier Smith and I are in close contact, as are our relevant ministers and officials.”
Dane Lloyd, a Member of Parliament representing a constituency west of Edmonton, was among the first to report in a social media post that he had heard there had been "multiple casualties" following an explosion and fire at the military base. Acute Care Alberta added in a press release issued around 18 p.m. that emergency medical services were on site "providing assistance and transportation in connection with an incident at Wainwright Military Base." The Municipal District of Wainwright said emergency responders were actively assessing the situation and "working to protect people, property, and critical infrastructure" in the area. It added that several agencies were responding to the incident south of the town of Wainwright.
"Avoid the area and keep the roads clear for emergency vehicles. Do not drive to the accident site or attempt to observe it," the municipality said in a social media post. Wainwright has established an emergency coordination center, as announced by the municipal district, also specifying that several jurisdictions are actively responding and that residents should avoid going to the Wainwright Health Centre unless there is an "urgent medical need." "The fire south of Wainwright overtook the military base fence today and is currently under control," the municipality stated.
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