Major fire breaks out in Alberta after deadly incident at military base

Defense Minister David McGuinty confirmed Saturday fatalities and injuries from an incident at CFB Wainwright, Alberta, that caused a major fire. He provided no numbers or cause, called it very, very active and delicate, and said RCMP were investigating. RCMP got calls after 4 p.m. Saturday on a training-area fire. The fire crossed the perimeter fence and spread rapidly in high winds; multi-jurisdiction firefighters responded with no evacuation order. Wainwright supplied hospital and fire support. Gen. Jennie Carignan called it a serious incident with full engagement of authorities and priority on members' welfare. Prime Minister Mark Carney, Premier Danielle Smith and Pierre Poilievre offered thoughts and support; Smith termed it significant and tragic, Poilievre said pray for Wainwright. Scott Moe said Saskatchewan was sending assistance. Two polling places closed early for the Alberta independence referendum, ballots secured. The cause remained undetermined as authorities sought more information.