Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the province is ready to assist with recovery efforts following an explosion and fire at a Canadian military base in Alberta that killed four service members and critically injured several others.
The Canadian Armed Forces said the fire broke out in a training area at approximately 4 p.m. local time Saturday before spreading rapidly beyond its boundaries.
Prime Minister Carney described the incident as a “violent, fast-moving fire,” and “one of the worst tragedies for the forces on Canadian soil.”
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In a statement to social media Sunday morning, Ford expressed his sympathies to those affected by the incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, including members of the Canadian Armed Forces and first responders.
“My thoughts are with everybody who has been affected by the terrible incident that took place at CFB Wainwright in Alberta last night,” he wrote.
“As Canadians, let’s come together to support our brave men and women in uniform, who put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms and our country. Ontario stands ready to help the recovery efforts however we can.”
The Premier later said that flags will be flown at half mast at all Ontario government buildings and establishments, “in response to the tragic events that took place at CFB Wainwright in Alberta” on Saturday.
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles also issued a statement Sunday, expressing her condolences to military members and their loved ones as officials work to determine the full extent of the tragedy.
“I cannot imagine the weight of this news for families with loved ones in the service. Canadians stand with you,” Stiles said.
She also thanked first responders and health-care workers treating those injured, adding that she joins Canadians across the country in awaiting further information.
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Flags also to be lowered in Toronto
Flags at Toronto City Hall and civic centres will be lowered to half-mast, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow says.
In a statement, Chow expressed her condolences to the families of those killed and thanked emergency crews and community members supporting those affected.
“My thoughts are with everyone affected by the tragic incident at CFB Wainwright in Alberta yesterday. My sincere condolences are with the families of those who lost their lives,” Chow said on X.
“Toronto stands with the service members at CFB Wainwright and everyone who steps up to serve their communities and country.”
