Mayor's Statement on tragic incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, AB

Today, Council, staff and residents of the City of Kitchener join a mourning nation following the tragic events of October 17 at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta.

On behalf of our entire community, I offer our deepest condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of all who lost their lives during yesterday’s tragic incident in a training area at CFB Wainwright.

We also send our wishes for healing to all those who were injured during yesterday’s incident - one of the worst tragedies for the Forces on Canadian soil in peacetime. May they find strength in the love and support of family, friends and a caring nation.

We extend our thoughts and prayers to all members of the Canadian Armed Forces, the broader military community and the community of Wainwright as they navigate this profound loss. We are deeply grateful to the first responders, medical teams, municipal staff and others who responded with urgency and care in Wainwright, Edmonton and elsewhere to support those affected.

This tragedy is a reminder of the risks and sacrifices the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces make in training and in service to our country. Our community stands in gratitude with all those who serve and those who have served.

To those in our community who serve in the Canadian Forces, full-time, reservists or veterans - please do not hesitate to reach out for support as you cope with the extent of this tragedy. To those in the community who know someone in the military or want to help, please consider checking in on those you know or making a blood donation through Canadian Blood Services.

In honour of those we lost, flags at Kitchener City Hall and all municipal facilities have been lowered to half-mast until further notice.

Today, and every day, we think of those who serve in our community and across the country. Kitchener stands in solidarity and sorrow with you at this difficult time.

Berry Vrbanovic

Mayor, City of Kitchener