RCMP exits CFB Wainwright investigation as military review continues into four soldiers' deaths
The October 17 fire that killed four Edmonton-based soldiers and injured 39 others is now under exclusive Canadian Armed Forces investigation, with RCMP resources stepping back.
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Alberta RCMP has wound down its initial involvement in the investigation of the October 17 fire at CFB Wainwright that killed four Canadian Armed Forces members and injured 39 others, though the force remains ready to assist if needed.
"Our initial involvement is winding down, though we still have resources available if needed," Cpl. Gina Slaney of Alberta RCMP media group said to reporters.
The Canadian Forces national investigative services, the First Military Police Regiment incident response team, and a CAF fire marshal team are leading the investigation. The fire occurred during a high-intensity combat training exercise involving live munitions, hand grenades, and a section attack with ten soldiers from Charlie Company of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton. The unit was training to deploy to Latvia in April and May.
The four soldiers killed were Sergeant Morgan Wong, Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding, and Private Hayden Lykkemark — all stationed in Edmonton. A grass fire burned for several hours before rapidly changing direction toward the training group at approximately 4 p.m., moving roughly one kilometre in 30 seconds to one minute.
Range control had been aware of the fire for several hours before the direction change and made the decision it could continue as it was contained. Maj.-Gen. Wade Rutland, commander of the 1st Canadian Division battalion, said "The weather for the majority of the day was well within standard procedures, well below 50 (km/h)." On whether the incident would prompt protocol changes, Rutland said: "This is why we have an investigative team out there, and we'll come up with the right answer. And if our protocols need to change, then they'll be updated."
Possible causes remain under investigation, including hand grenades, grenade launcher, small arms ammunition, and ordnance. CFB Wainwright sits on a 150,000-acre base with approximately 180 gas wells. Initial assessment found oil and gas infrastructure unaffected, though Rutland said a team will complete a thorough check.
The facts
When did the fire at CFB Wainwright occur?
The fire occurred on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
How many soldiers were killed and injured in the fire?
Four soldiers were killed and 39 others were injured in the fire at CFB Wainwright.
Which unit was conducting the training exercise when the fire started?
Charlie Company of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, was conducting a high-intensity combat training exercise involving ten soldiers when the fire occurred.
How quickly did the fire spread toward the training group?
The grass fire changed direction and moved roughly one kilometre in 30 seconds to one minute before reaching the training group at approximately 4 p.m.
