Thirty-three service members remain hospitalized after CFB Wainwright blaze

A deadly fire at CFB Wainwright in central Alberta resulted in 39 soldiers being taken to hospital on Saturday, and at least 19 were reported critical by the province. Defence minister David McGuinty, speaking from Ottawa, confirmed that 33 of those military personnel are still admitted, emphasizing respect for their privacy while pledging full governmental support. Prime Minister Mark Carney said he has spoken with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith about providing further aid to the injured and their families.

The incident triggered three separate investigations, and officials declined to comment on the fire's cause. Dr. Cheyanne Vetter, medical director of the Wainwright Health Centre, described how the small hospital transformed its acute-care floor into an emergency ward and coordinated with military medics and STARS air-ambulance helicopters. She praised the staff and support services for exceeding expectations during the mass-casualty response.