CFB Wainwright: Latest on deadly explosion, fire at Alberta military base

An initial investigation at CFB Wainwright indicates that a live training exercise involving a munition sparked a grass fire, triggering a devastating explosion and fire on Saturday, according to military sources. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that four service members lost their lives, and dozens more sustained injuries, with the next of kin of the deceased notified.

The provincial government expects a news conference later today to provide further details. Alberta health officials have lifted the Code Orange alert, which had been in effect to prepare hospitals for a mass casualty incident. Emergency services, including ambulances, planes, and helicopters, responded to the scene, with assistance from Saskatchewan.

The injured have been transferred to four hospitals in the Edmonton, Red Deer, and Calgary regions. Wainwright Mayor Bruce Pugh noticed the unusual silence following the artillery boom of military training exercises, followed by sirens and helicopters. He recounted the swift arrival of military medical personnel via parachutes. Prime Minister Carney described the fire as "violent" and fast-moving, and the NATO Military Committee has offered condolences, emphasizing the significance of Wainwright in training Canadian soldiers and allies.

The United States Ambassador to Canada expressed his sympathy for the families and the injured. The incident remains under investigation, with no indication of terrorist involvement.