Canada’s chief military officer has pledged to make public the outcomes of the probe into the fire incident at the training facility in Wainwright, Alberta, which resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and numerous injuries. Gen. Jennie Carignan mentioned that there are ongoing investigations by two military entities and one civilian authority. She indicated that the military investigative service is on-site, with plans for a board of inquiry (BOI) and a technical examination, alongside a civilian coroner’s review by the Alberta province.
The military typically does not have to disclose its findings voluntarily. Previously, public pressure was necessary to reveal the board of inquiry findings from the 2004 HMCS Chicoutimi fire incident. Although Carignan is developing the terms of reference for the board, she refrained from committing to a timeline for its commencement. She emphasized the importance of initiating the board of inquiry on a strong foundation and ensuring the subsequent findings are made public.
Additionally, Carignan mentioned that the Canadian Forces fire marshal is analyzing the event, with the RCMP assisting the Alberta medical examiner. Tributes were paid in the House of Commons to the fallen soldiers who were overwhelmed by a rapid brush fire during training exercises at Wainwright. The military clarified that the fire was preexisting and unexpectedly shifted towards the soldiers conducting drills involving hand grenade exercises.
The deceased soldiers were identified as Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding, and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark, while 39 others sustained injuries, 19 of them seriously. Carignan defended the decision to continue training near the fire, emphasizing the importance of realistic combat conditions while prioritizing safety protocols. She highlighted the role of ground personnel in assessing training impacts and implementing safety measures, including firefighting equipment on-site.
Retired colonel Rory Fowler cautioned against high expectations regarding the board of inquiry report, especially concerning assigning blame. He noted that if culpability is found, it may be dealt with through the military justice or disciplinary systems. Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed confidence in the investigative process and pledged full support to the military’s investigation efforts.
Military law expert Michel Drapeau stressed the significance of releasing investigation findings and called for increased transparency throughout the process. He advocated for public hearings to involve families and underscored the importance of public knowledge in such cases. Drapeau has long advocated for an independent oversight body for impartial investigations within the Canadian Forces.
