A fatal fire is unfolding at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, south of Edmonton, Alberta, the Minister of Defence, David McGuinty, announced at a press conference on Oct. 17.

 

The number of fatalities and injured persons has not been confirmed at the time of publication.

 

McGuinty said he is “addressing the tragic events” which have occurred.

 

“I am saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base. The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), the Department of National Defence (DND), partners across the federal government, including public safety, are working with the Government of Alberta and municipal governments to mobilize all necessary support and  are working through the details of what actually occurred.”

 

“We will have more to say in the coming hours and days. At this time, our thoughts are with the families, and with everyone impacted by this tragic event. I want to thank, in particular, the first responders and everyone assisting at a very difficult time.”

 

The Minister said it is an “active and delicate situation,” of which, in his recent recollection, he is not aware of an incident like this.

 

“It’s underway on the ground. We have, of course, Canadian Forces members and the RCMP  involved in investigating the matter. Our public safety officials are coordinating. At this time, the first responders and local authorities are doing their important work, so we will keep Canadians informed as details are made available,” he said.

 

When asked at the press conference just after 8 p.m. on Saturday evening, if the fire was still active or under control, he responded, saying, “It is an active and delicate situation, and soon to be an active and delicate investigation.”

 

“My understanding is that the fire is still being monitored very closely. We’ll have more to say about that in due course.”

 

“We will be here to support. The government of Canada will be here to support with all of these issues. I’ve spoken to the Prime Minister, spoken to the Premier of Alberta, Premier [Danielle] Smith. I’m in touch with the Chief of Defence Staff of the Canadian Armed Forces, the head of the Army, General Mike Wright. We’re working our way forward on this. We’ll be cooperating and providing all the assistance that’s required.”

 

“There is discussion now, of course, to see what has to occur with respect to the fire that’s in place … I’ll leave this to the technical experts, the operational experts at the base, at public safety, within the Canadian Armed Forces, and as I say, as those details emerge, we will share them with Canadians,” Minister McGuinty said.