A candidate running for mayor in Oro-Medonte, Ontario, has temporarily paused her campaign to be with her son, who sustained critical injuries in a significant fire at a Canadian Forces Base in Wainwright, Alberta. Cathy Keane, the mayoral hopeful, revealed that her family received distressing news about her eldest son being among the numerous military personnel injured in the Wainwright incident.
Tragically, the fire that erupted in a vast training area on Saturday afternoon claimed the lives of four service members. In a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday, Keane expressed her need to prioritize being with her son and family during this challenging period. She conveyed her inability to continue campaign activities like door-knocking but affirmed her commitment to the mayoral race in Oro-Medonte, emphasizing her unwavering belief in the community and its potential for growth.
Keane’s decision to step away from campaigning garnered immense support from the community, with various figures, including Barrie-Springwater MP Doug Shipley and Oro-Medonte’s incumbent mayor Randy Greenlaw, expressing solidarity and offering thoughts and prayers for the affected families and service members. Premier Doug Ford of Ontario also extended support, pledging assistance to Alberta and Wainwright in recovery efforts and urging Canadians to unite in backing the courageous members of the armed forces who safeguard the nation’s freedoms.
Prime Minister Mark Carney described the Wainwright fire as one of the most devastating tragedies for the Canadian Forces during peacetime. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith provided updates on the situation, revealing that 39 individuals were hospitalized, with at least 19 in critical condition following the incident. As a gesture of solidarity and respect, flags were lowered to half-mast at both provincial and federal government buildings nationwide.
The community, political leaders, and Canadians at large have come together in support of those affected by the tragic events at CFB Wainwright, emphasizing unity and compassion during this somber time.
