Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed four Canadian Armed Forces members were killed and dozens more seriously injured in Saturday’s devastating incident at CFB Wainwright, as a Prince Albert mother publicly mourns the loss of her son.

(The following story was written by Jenny Hagen with WestCentalOnline.com)

Speaking Sunday, Oct. 18, Carney described the tragedy as one of the worst incidents involving Canada’s military on Canadian soil during peacetime.

“I regret that I can confirm at this time that four service members have lost their lives and their next of kin have been notified,” Carney said.

“Dozens more are seriously wounded.”

The prime minister confirmed flags at federal buildings across Canada will fly at half-mast in honour of those who died.

Prince Albert mother mourns fallen son

The tragedy has reached Saskatchewan, where Prince Albert mother Patricia Farrell has announced the death of her son, Shaun Farrell, who the family has identified as one of those lost in the Wainwright incident.

In an emotional public Facebook post, Farrell shared the family’s heartbreak.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that our son, Shaun Farrell, has passed away to be with our Heavenly Father,” she wrote.

“We want to thank everyone for your love, support, and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. As our family navigates this profound loss, we kindly ask for privacy so that we may grieve together.”

Farrell ended her tribute with a message to her son.

“Love you my darling child.”

National Defence has not yet released an official list identifying the four service members who died.

The family’s announcement comes as military communities across Canada begin mourning those lost in the incident.

Fire spread rapidly during military training

According to National Defence, the fire began within the training area at CFB Wainwright at approximately 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17.

Powerful winds helped spread the flames beyond the training grounds, prompting an extensive response involving military and civilian emergency services.

The prime minister confirmed the personnel affected had been participating in military training.

Those involved included reservists and members of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.

Carney acknowledged the regiment’s history of service during the First and Second World Wars, Korea, Afghanistan and peacekeeping operations.

“Those we lost, those who were injured, were training to defend Canada, to serve Canada,” he said.

“And now Canada serves them.”

The cause of the initial incident remains under investigation.

Dozens seriously injured as hospitals mobilize

The scale of the tragedy prompted a major medical response across Alberta, with emergency resources arriving from neighbouring provinces.

Carney confirmed STARS air ambulance crews from both Edmonton and Saskatoon participated in the response.

Injured personnel were transported for treatment in Wainwright, Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary.

Hospitals activated emergency procedures to accommodate the influx of patients.

Carney thanked the firefighters, paramedics, nurses, physicians and military personnel who worked through the night under dangerous conditions.

“Military and civilian crews fought this fire throughout the night in some of the worst conditions imaginable, risking their lives to protect their fellow Canadians,” he said.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe previously confirmed provincial resources had been deployed to assist Alberta, with additional support available if needed.

Federal government pledges support to families

Carney said he and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have remained in regular contact throughout the emergency.

Federal officials, including National Defence Minister David McGuinty, were expected to provide further details during a briefing in Wainwright.

The prime minister pledged ongoing support for injured service members and the families of those killed.

“We will be there for their families for as long as they need,” Carney said.

“We will care for the injured through every step of their recovery.”

The Municipal District of Wainwright No. 61 confirmed late Saturday that the wildfire south of the community was being held, with firefighters continuing to monitor the affected area.

The tragedy has deeply affected Wainwright, where military families, civilian employees and local residents maintain close connections to the base.

Community organizations have begun offering mental health and crisis support services for those affected.

As investigations continue, Carney said the country would stand alongside the military community through the difficult days ahead.

“We will stand by the women and men of our armed forces as they bear the weight of this loss,” he said.

“They will not carry it alone.”