At least seven people were killed and dozens injured in an explosion and subsequent fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on Saturday evening.

A blast occurred in a training area of the base around 4 p.m. local time, triggering a major fire that spread rapidly due to strong winds. The fire crossed the base perimeter into nearby districts but did not prompt evacuation orders.

Defense Minister David McGuinty confirmed the seven fatalities and injuries during a late-night news conference, describing the situation as active and delicate. He noted that he could not recalled an incident of this scale at a Canadian military installation in recent memory.

Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the event in a social media post, stating that a serious incident creating a major fire had occurred at CFB Wainwright. "Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected," Carney wrote. He added that the federal government was working closely with the Government of Alberta and local authorities, with him and Premier Danielle Smith remaining in close contact.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian military are investigating the cause of the explosion. CFB Wainwright serves as one of Canada's busiest army training facilities, home to the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre.

Emergency services transported numerous patients to hospitals in Edmonton and surrounding areas, where facilities reported being overwhelmed by the volume of casualties from the event. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the fire as significant and tragic, affecting many military personnel.

The incident marks an unprecedented event for the Canadian Armed Forces and prompted statements of support from officials across the political spectrum, including opposition figures such as Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.

The investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing.