4 soldiers dead, dozens injured in fire at Canada’s military base

Wainwright, Alberta - A devastating fire at the Canadian Forces Base Wainwright has claimed the lives of four soldiers, leaving dozens injured, marking one of the most tragic peacetime incidents for Canada's armed forces on domestic soil, stated Prime Minister Mark Carney. The cause of the fire, which broke out on Saturday afternoon, remains unknown.

Carney, in Ottawa, expressed his deep sorrow, saying that the four fallen service members' loved ones have been informed. The hospital in Edmonton, located about 200km northwest of the base, reported hospitals were overwhelmed by the influx of patients, with Warren Thirsk, a local doctor, describing the situation as a disaster that could happen once in 15 to 25 years.

The rapid spread of the fire, exacerbated by strong winds, was attributed to the fire's location in the base's training area. Despite the intense effort of both military and civilian crews, the blaze continued to pose a significant threat. Carney emphasized the Canadian commitment to support the injured and the armed forces, stating that they would not bear this loss alone, as Canadians stand together in solidarity.

The incident also disrupted advance voting for the upcoming referendum on Alberta's potential independence from Canada.