Major General Wade Rutland, higher headquarters for units training at CFB Wainwright, confirmed that four Canadian Armed Forces members died and many others were injured in a rapidly spreading grass fire during a training exercise by 3 PPCLI on October 17 “The Soldiers of the Canadian army suffered a terrible loss during a training activity at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright at approximately 4:00pm yesterday,” Rutland said. “During the conduct of a training, a grass fire ignited in the training area. The cause of this fire is under active investigation.” The fallen, as named by Rutland: Private Aiden Goulding, 3 PPCLI, North Vancouver, BC Private Sean Farrell, 3 PPCLI, Prince Albert, SK Private Hayden Leichmark, 3 PPCLI, Langley, BC Sergeant Morgan Wong, Loyal Edmonton Regiment, Edmonton, AB He noted multiple training activities were underway. “Uncommonly strong winds caused the fire to spread rapidly and shift direction towards the range administrative area. The fire did originate within the training area and did cross established fire guards before being contained in conjunction with municipal authorities.”Reports of explosions were addressed directly: “Certainly we do not believe this to be as a result of any oil and gas infrastructure nor any outside interference.” “Unfortunately, I can confirm four Canadian Armed Forces members are deceased and many others injured. Casualties have been evacuated to a multitude of medical facilities to receive the best care our system has to offer.” Rutland thanked medical personnel, first responders, STARS, air ambulance crews, and military aviation teams for their rapid response. The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service, 1st Military Police Regiment Incident Response Team, RCMP, and CAF Fire Marshal team members are investigating. “Our top priority at this time is care of soldiers and families. At this time, we ask that families be respected during this very difficult time. Armed Forces is providing support to affected families through the chain of command, chaplain services and other available support resources.” “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those we lost and with the injured members still receiving care. We stand with the teammates, friends and units affected by this terrible tragedy. The well being of our people is our highest priority.”