CFB Wainwright fire: Explosion at Canadian military base leaves fatalities; Alberta vote disrupted

A deadly fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta has left people dead and others injured, according to Canada’s Defence Minister. The blaze reportedly began inside the military training area on October 17, triggering an emergency response from military and civilian teams. Authorities have yet to establish the cause of the fire. Prime Minister Mark Carney, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have expressed support for those affected and thanked emergency responders. The incident has also disrupted advance voting ahead of Alberta’s referendum on whether to begin a process that could lead to independence from Canada. Carney recently questioned the timing of the referendum during remarks in Calgary.