Social Media image via 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol, GoC
WAINWRIGHT — Messages of condolence are pouring in from across Canada and abroad following the deadly fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright that killed four service members and left dozens injured.
King Charles III said Monday that he and Queen Camilla were “greatly shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.
“Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, and with all those who have been injured or otherwise affected at this most difficult time,” the King said.
He also expressed gratitude to military and civilian emergency services, healthcare workers and others who responded to the fire.
“Above all, we send our special thoughts and prayers to the people of Alberta, and to the Canadian Armed Forces and their families,” the King said.
Governor General and Commander-in-Chief Louise Arbour said her thoughts are with the families of those killed, the injured and everyone affected by the tragedy.
“I would also like to recognize the dedication and courage of the first responders and all those who are working tirelessly in the relief efforts during this difficult time,” Arbour said. “Our hearts are with you.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed four Canadian Armed Forces members died and their next of kin have been notified.
“The nation is in mourning for those brave members of our Armed Forces we have lost,” Carney said Sunday.
He described the incident as “one of the worst tragedies for the forces on Canadian soil in peacetime.”
The four service members have been identified as Pte. Aidan Goulding, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Hayden Lykkemark and Sgt. Morgan Wong.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said Sunday that 39 people remained in hospital, with at least 19 in critical condition.
“Alberta is mourning alongside the Canadian Armed Forces and the families, friends and colleagues of those affected by the tragic incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright yesterday,” Smith said.
“The loss of life and injuries are heartbreaking.”
Condolences have also come from Ukraine, where Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he was deeply saddened by the incident.
“My heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives,” Sybiha said. “Ukraine stands in solidarity with Canada at this difficult time.”
Canadian astronaut and retired colonel Chris Hadfield said his heart goes out to the families and friends of those affected.
“Such awful news from the military base at Wainwright, Alberta, with multiple lives lost and many badly injured,” Hadfield said. “Immense gratitude to the first responders and medics on the scene.”
Royal Roads University lowered its flag to half-mast, saying its “deep condolences” are with Canadian Armed Forces members, families, friends and the wider military community.
The Alberta RCMP also issued a statement saying it was deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries.
“We stand with the military community during this difficult time,” the RCMP said.
The Department of National Defence says there is no indication the incident was the result of terrorist activity.
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