A fifth Canadian Armed Forces member has died from injuries sustained when a fast-moving grass fire swept through the Canadian Forces Base in Wainwright, Alta., on Oct. 17, killing four other soldiers and injuring dozens more.
“It is with profound sadness that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) confirms the death of a fifth soldier who was receiving medical care in Ontario following the tragic incident that occurred at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright on October 17, 2026,” the Department of National Defense said on Nov. 14.
The department confirmed that Private William Douglas Dal Bianco of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, was the latest soldier to succumb to his injuries from the fire.
A total of 24 Armed Forces members remain in hospital undergoing treatment, while another 14 have already been released, it said.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canadians are holding Dal Bianco and all those grieving the tragedy in their hearts.
“Private Dal Bianco and his fellow soldiers were training to defend Canada. With their bright futures still before them, they chose to safeguard ours,” Carney said. “That is service. Now, we serve them.”
Defence Minister David McGuinty offered his condolences to the family and friends of Dal Bianco.
“No words can ease the pain of this loss, but their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” McGuinty said.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she is “heartbroken” over the tragedy, offering condolences to Dal Bianco’s friends and family.
“Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and Canadian Armed Forces community mourning this profound loss,” Smith said.
The department said on Oct. 22 that the fire originated at an Automatic Grenade Launcher range during a routine training exercise. The department added that the location of the fire made suppression difficult, and a sudden change in the wind caused it to spread.
The military says that an investigation is ongoing into the exact cause of the incident, and that the public would be updated as details emerge.
The fire ranks among the deadliest peacetime training incidents involving the Canadian military in recent decades.
Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding, and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark were the first four deaths reported following the tragedy.
