A serious fire spread this Saturday at the Canadian military base in Wainwright, in the province of Alberta, and caused deaths and injuries, according to authorities, who have not yet specified the number of victims.
The Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carneynoted on social media that a “serious incident” had occurred that caused a large fire at the military installation, located about two hours east of Edmonton.
“Our thoughts are with all the brave men and women affected,” said Carney, who added that he maintains close contact with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
Smith called the fire “significant and tragic” and noted that it had affected numerous service members.
Conservative MP Dane Lloyd said he had received reports of “numerous victims” following an explosion and fire, although authorities have not confirmed the toll.
According to the Canadian public broadcaster CBC, The strong winds favored the rapid spread of the flames.
Emergency services deployed medical and fire-fighting teams, while local authorities asked the population to avoid the area to facilitate rescue operations.
Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty confirmed that the Armed Forces had informed him of the incident and acknowledged that there were fatalities and injuries, although he did not specify their number.
The fire occurs two days before the October 19 referendum in Alberta, in which citizens will decide whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the legal process to hold a future binding consultation on its independence.
