Four Canadian Armed Forces members were killed and 39 others were injured during a fire-related training incident at CFB Wainwright in Alberta, National Defence says.
The incident happened at about 4 p.m. MDT on Oct. 17. National Defence identified the dead as Sgt. Morgan Wong, of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment, who was serving with the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, and Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark, all of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton.
Members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group from the battalion were conducting live fire training as part of Exercise APOLLO SHOOTER. National Defence says a fire ignited during the training, and high wind speeds allowed it to grow and spread very rapidly, overtaking the unit administrative area.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the four Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives. Canada mourns with the entire Canadian Armed Forces community during this profoundly difficult time. We remain committed to supporting all those affected and to honouring the service, dedication and sacrifice of these soldiers,” said Defence Minister David McGuinty.
“It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Sergeant Morgan Wong, Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding, and Private Hayden Lykkemark. On behalf of all our members, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues. We stand with them during this incredibly difficult time as we honour the service and dedication of our fallen. My thoughts are also with our injured members and their loved ones as they receive care and support. I am grateful to the first responders and medical teams who responded to this tragedy, and to everyone providing support to those affected,” said Gen. Jennie Carignan, chief of the defence staff.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of our fallen members. The Canadian Army stands with their loved ones during this profoundly difficult time. These dedicated soldiers served Canada with honour and were training to carry out the Canadian Army’s mission. We mourn their loss and will never forget their service,” said Lt.-Gen. Michael Wright, commander of the Canadian Army.
“On October 17, 2026, the soldiers of the 1st Canadian Division suffered a devastating loss during a training activity at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright. Our thoughts are first and foremost with the families and loved ones of those we lost, and with the injured members receiving care. We stand with the teammates, friends, and Units affected by this tragedy. The well-being of our people remains our highest priority as we support those impacted, and work to understand the circumstances surrounding this incident,” said Maj.-Gen. Wade Rutland, commander of the 1st Canadian Division.
