The key facts

  • Explosion and major fire at CFB Wainwright base in Alberta, with dead and injured — the number has not been disclosed
  • Due to strong winds, the fire spread beyond the base perimeter; no evacuation order was issued
  • Circumstances of the incident have not been disclosed; the RCMP is investigating

What Happened

On Saturday, an explosion and a major fire occurred at the Canadian military base CFB Wainwright in the province of Alberta. Canadian Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed that the incident resulted in deaths and injuries, but did not give the number of victims and did not disclose the circumstances, including whether weapons or ammunition were involved. He described the situation as 'active and delicate' (the BBC quotes the wording as 'very, very active and delicate').

Government Response

Prime Minister Mark Carney earlier called what happened 'a serious incident that caused a major fire' and wrote that federal authorities are working closely with provincial and local ones. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called the fire 'significant and tragic,' noting that it affected many service members. MP Dane Lloyd had earlier reported 'significant losses.' McGuinty said he could not recall a similar incident in recent memory and promised to publish new information as it becomes available.

Fire Spread and Measures

According to the Municipal District of Wainwright, due to strong winds the fire crossed the base fence and spread beyond its boundaries; emergency services from several jurisdictions headed to the scene. The district said the fire is being actively fought and services are focused on protecting lives, homes and structures. Local authorities said no evacuation orders were issued, but urged residents to avoid the area and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. The Wainwright community is assisting with hospitalization and firefighting.

Investigation and Details

The incident is being investigated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP); the Canadian Armed Forces are coordinating the response with federal, provincial and municipal authorities. The exact time the fire started is unclear; the district first reported the incident at around 5:30 p.m. local time. Publications differ in their estimates of the distance from the base to Edmonton: Anadolu puts it at about 200 km to the southeast, Deutsche Welle at about 180 km. The base is one of the busiest training grounds of the Canadian army. Deutsche Welle also notes that the incident occurred a few days before the October 19 referendum in Alberta on starting a separation process from Canada.