Wainwright:Alberta At least four people have died and dozens were seriously injured after a fast-moving fire swept through a Canadian military base in Alberta. Prime Minister Mark Carney described the incident as one of the most severe peacetime tragedies for the nation's armed forces.

According to Anadolu Agency, the fire broke out Saturday afternoon at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Edmonton. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith reported that 39 individuals were hospitalized, with at least 19 in critical condition. Patients were transferred to four hospitals across the province.

Maj-Gen. L.W. Rutland explained that officials had been aware of the fire for several hours, but unusually strong winds caused it to spread rapidly and move toward an administrative area of the training range. The fire, initially reported on the training range, quickly moved beyond its initial boundaries.

Defense Minister David McGuinty confirmed the occurrence of casualties but refrained from providing specific figures, citing the situation as "active and delicate." The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are leading an investigation while military and civilian authorities coordinate the response efforts.

Prime Minister Carney expressed condolences for the fallen service members and announced that flags on federal buildings would be flown at half-mast. He also emphasized the nation's commitment to supporting the injured and bereaved families, assuring long-term assistance during their recovery.

Gen. Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defense Staff of the Canadian Armed Forces, stated that the military is working closely with authorities to provide support to those affected by the tragedy.