An explosion followed by a large fire at a Canadian military installation on Saturday resulted in multiple casualties, with authorities confirming deaths and injuries but withholding exact figures.
The incident occurred at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, east of Edmonton, where flames spread beyond a military training area amid strong winds.
Canadian Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed that lives had been lost and others injured.
“I’m saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base,” McGuinty told reporters.
He declined to provide casualty numbers or explain what caused the explosion, including whether weapons or ammunition were involved, describing the situation as “active and delicate.”
According to the Canadian Armed Forces, the fire was initially reported at approximately 4pm local time on a training range before spreading outside the designated area.
Local authorities subsequently reported that the blaze had been brought under control.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) launched an investigation into the incident, while military officials coordinated emergency operations with federal, provincial and municipal authorities.
Local media, citing an RCMP communication, reported that officers were dispatched shortly after 4pm following reports of a fire in the training area. Multiple police units responded, with personnel remaining available even after the initial emergency deployment began winding down.
Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan, said the military was working closely with authorities at all levels to manage the situation.
“Our priority remains the welfare of our members, their families and their community, and my thoughts are with all those affected by this incident,” she wrote on X.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also acknowledged the incident, describing it as “serious” and confirming that a major fire had broken out at the military base.
“Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected,” Carney wrote on Facebook.
He added that federal agencies were cooperating with provincial and local authorities in responding to the emergency.
The cause of the explosion remains undetermined, and officials have not yet released the identities or total number of those killed and injured.