CFB Wainwright: deaths and injuries after a 'serious incident' sets off a major fire at Canada's army training base in Alberta

People have been killed and injured after a "serious incident" at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright in Alberta set off a major fire, Canada's Defence Minister David McGuinty said at a press conference on Saturday night, local time, which was Sunday morning in Pakistan. He did not give casualty numbers or say what caused it, The Guardian reported.

"I'm saddened to share that there have been both fatalities and injuries as a result of an incident on the base," McGuinty said, describing the situation as "active and delicate" and adding: "I cannot recall an incident like this in recent memory."

What we know

Prime Minister Mark Carney said earlier on social media that "a serious incident creating a major fire has occurred at CFB Wainwright," and that his thoughts were "with all the brave women and men affected." Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called the fire "significant and tragic" and said it was affecting many military personnel. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre urged people nearby to follow emergency instructions and keep roads clear for first responders.

The Canadian Armed Forces and federal, provincial and local authorities are running a joint emergency response. The town of Wainwright is providing hospital and firefighting support, and crews from several jurisdictions are fighting the fire.

What CFB Wainwright is

Wainwright is one of Canada's busiest army training bases, where soldiers prepare for combat operations. It is home to the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre, which runs large battlefield exercises, and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre.

For Pakistanis in Alberta

Alberta has a large Pakistani community, mostly in Edmonton and Calgary. Wainwright is a small town about two hours' drive from Edmonton, and there is no sign of any effect on the cities. If you have family in the Wainwright area, follow the Municipal District of Wainwright and Alberta Emergency Alert for any evacuation order. Sending money home from Canada? Our currency converter has today's rupee rate.

This story will be updated when officials release casualty figures or a cause.