A fast-moving grass fire spread through a training area at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on October 17, killing four soldiers and injuring 39 as military and civilian authorities investigate how it spread.
The injured included 19 people who were reported to be in critical condition. The four soldiers killed were Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark, who belonged to Edmonton-based units. The troops were conducting combat training, including exercises with live fire, as they prepared for a possible deployment to Latvia.
Military officials said a grass fire had been burning nearby. They said it was not considered a threat before the wind suddenly changed and pushed the flames toward the training area. Maj.-Gen. Wade Rutland said the fire travelled about a kilometre in 30 to 60 seconds.
He said the fire overwhelmed soldiers who had seen no immediate danger. Officials have not established what ignited the fire. Three investigations are underway: two military inquiries and a civilian coroner’s investigation in Alberta.
Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan has said the military will make the board of inquiry’s findings public when the inquiry is complete. No timetable has been announced.