A "serious incident" caused a major fire at a military base in Canada's Alberta, resulting in an unspecified number of deaths and injuries, according to officials.
"A serious incident creating a major fire has occurred at CFB Wainwright, in Alberta," Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a social media post on Saturday, October 17.
"I'm saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base," Defence Minister David McGuinty was quoted as saying by the Associated Press.
"Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected," he said separately on X. The incident took place at a defence installation near Wainwright, a town located about 180 kilometres south-east of Edmonton.
Danielle Smith, the Premier of the Alberta province, described the blaze as "significant and tragic." She said the fire was affecting many military personnel and that Alberta authorities were in close contact with the federal government.
"Alberta’s government is in close contact with the Government of Canada and Prime Minister Mark Carney as this situation evolves," Smith stated.
Canada's opposition leader and Conservative Pierre Poilievre said he had spoken with the PM and the defence minister to offer support to those affected by the fire.
"Pray for Wainwright, everyone," the Conservative leader said in a post (originally in French) on social media.
"To everyone in the area, please stay safe, follow local emergency instructions, and keep the roads clear for first responders," he added
