Murray Wood: The fascinating phenomenon of people's laps
Who knew one's lap was so interesting? Murray Wood wonders: Do those folks really think we don't know they're texting be...
EDMONTON — Canada’s military says a grass fire that killed four soldiers and sent scores more to hospital with bad burns was known well beforehand but not considered a threat.
Maj.-Gen. Wade Rutland says the grass fire was a kilometre away and considered sufficiently under control that training exercises were allowed to continue Saturday afternoon at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright.
However, he says conditions — including a violent, sudden windstorm — sent those flames racing over the Prairie landscape at lightning speed, landing right on top of the soldiers.
“This was a very uncommon occurrence,” Rutland told a news conference Sunday.
“I spoke to may commander on the ground,” he added. “He said within 30 seconds to a minute they saw no fire, and then there was a fire right on top of them.”
Rutland said there is a lot to consider. Did the fire move that quickly because of the wind? Or did it move unseen through foliage to surprise the soldiers? Or was it both?
“This is why we’re going to do a complete investigation as to the topography, field conditions, foliage, etc., because it all plays into what happened,” he said.
The fire killed four soldiers and injured 39 more, nineteen of whom are in critical condition.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced the casualty count and confirmed many have serious burns. “The loss of life and injuries are heartbreaking,” Smith said.
The four deceased have been identified as: Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pvt. Shaun Farrell, Pvt. Aida Goulding and Pvt. Hayden Lykkemark.
The wounded are being cared for in four hospitals in Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 18, 2026.
Jack Farrell, The Canadian Press
