Deadly fire breaks out near Canadian military base in Alberta

A large fire near Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in the western province of Alberta, Canada, broke out on Saturday, killing and injuring people. Defence Minister David McGuinty did not confirm how many people were affected, and the cause of the blaze has not yet been established.

The minister described the situation as "very, very active and delicate". He said the Canadian Armed Forces were working with local authorities to bring the fire under control and to investigate what started it. McGuinty told reporters he could not recall a similar incident in recent memory.

About the base

Wainwright is one of Canada's busiest military training bases. The national broadcaster CBC describes it as the principal base for live-fire training exercises. On a regular day, about 690 military personnel and 300 civilian workers are on site, according to the CBC.

How the fire spread

The Municipal District of Wainwright said the blaze spread rapidly because of high winds and tore through the base's fences. It is unclear exactly when the fire began, but the district first posted about it at about 17:30 local time (23:30 GMT). Local authorities urged residents to avoid the area and to give all emergency vehicles right of way.

Reactions

Prime Minister Mark Carney wrote on X that a "serious incident creating a major fire" had occurred, adding that his thoughts were with everyone affected. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called it a "significant and tragic fire" affecting many of the province's military personnel. She said provincial authorities were in contact with the federal government on managing and investigating the situation.

Neighbouring provinces have offered help. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he had deployed resources to Alberta and was ready to provide more if required, while British Columbia Premier David Eby said his government had reached out to Alberta to offer all possible assistance.