Canada: Major fire reported at military base in Alberta

BREAKING: A 'serious incident' sparks a major fire at CFB Wainwright military base in Alberta, Canada, with Defense Minister confirming fatalities and injuries, as PM Mark Carney vows federal support.

There are fatalities at a Canadian military base tonight after a major fire at CFB Wainwright in Alberta.

Prime Minister Mark Carney calls it a serious incident, and says the federal government is working closely with Alberta authorities. Defence Minister David McGuinty confirmed there have been deaths and injuries among those on the base. He hasn't said how many, and no cause has been given yet.

Wainwright sits about 180 kilometres southeast of Edmonton, and it's one of the busiest training bases in the country. Local officials say the fire crossed the base fence and is spreading fast on high winds, with crews focused on protecting lives and homes. Premier Danielle Smith called it significant and tragic, saying many military personnel are affected.

All of this comes one day before Alberta votes in its separation referendum. For tonight, the hardest fact stands alone. Canadian soldiers have died on Canadian soil, and we don't yet know why.

This is Kateryna Kovalenko, reporting for HIT.