Canadian Military Base Fire Caused by Live Grenade Exercise
A fast-moving grass fire at a Canadian military base, which resulted in the deaths of at least four soldiers, was sparked by a live grenade exercise, a senior defense official confirmed Thursday.
A fire that killed at least four soldiers and injured dozens more at a western Canadian military base on Saturday was ignited by a live grenade exercise, a senior defense official stated on Thursday. High winds reportedly fanned the flames across the army base in Wainwright, overwhelming numerous soldiers.
Brigadier-General Vanessa Hanrahan told reporters that the fire began on the automatic grenade launcher range as a result of routine military training. The incident marks one of the most severe peacetime tragedies for Canada's military.
Officials confirmed that 27 individuals remain hospitalized, with several in critical condition. The soldiers and reserve members affected by the fire were preparing for deployment to Latvia, where Canadian forces maintain their largest international military operation.