Mark Carney says "Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men" about the Wainwright base fire

A blaze erupted in a training area of Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on Saturday, spreading quickly because of strong winds and prompting a large‑scale emergency response that lasted into the night. Emergency crews reported several deaths and numerous injuries, with hospitals in Edmonton receiving a surge of patients that strained their capacity. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police opened an investigation after the fire was reported shortly after 4 p.m., while Defence Minister David McGuinty described the situation as ongoing and sensitive. In a social‑media message, Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed sympathy for those impacted and said the federal government was coordinating with provincial and local authorities. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also offered support and urged residents to follow safety directives, noting the incident occurred just before a provincial vote on a potential independence process.