A large fire at one of Canada's busiest military training bases has killed and injured a number of people, Canada's defence minister confirmed on Saturday.
"I'm saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base," Defence Minister David McGuinty said at a press conference Saturday night.
McGuinty did not provide casualty figures or details about what caused the incident. He described the situation at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright as "very, very active and delicate" and said he "cannot recall an incident like this in recent memory."
The Canadian Armed Forces were working with federal, provincial, and local authorities to coordinate the emergency response. The nearby community of Wainwright was providing hospital and firefighting support.
Prime Minister Mark Carney wrote on social media: "A serious incident creating a major fire has occurred at CFB Wainwright, in Alberta." He added: "Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected."
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the fire as "significant and tragic," saying it was affecting many military personnel.
The Municipal District of Wainwright said the fire crossed the base's fence earlier on Saturday and was spreading rapidly due to high winds. Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions were responding. No evacuation order was in effect, though local authorities urged residents to avoid the area and give all emergency vehicles right of way.
It is unclear when the fire broke out. The district first posted about the incident at approximately 17:30 local time.
CFB Wainwright is located about 180 kilometres southeast of Edmonton. It is home to the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre, which conducts realistic battlefield exercises, and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre, which provides military training.
Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre said he had spoken with Carney and the defence minister to offer support to those affected. "Pray for Wainwright, everyone," Poilievre wrote on social media, urging people in the area to follow emergency instructions and keep roads clear for first responders.
