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A fifth Canadian soldier has died from injuries suffered when a grass fire swept through a military training area last month, according to the BBC.
Pte William Douglas Dal Bianco, who had been receiving medical care in Ontario, died on Friday, the Canadian Armed Forces said in a statement.
The fire broke out during a live-fire training exercise on 17 October and spread rapidly through Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta, driven by strong winds. Four people were initially killed and dozens were injured.
Prime Minister Mark Carney wrote on “X”: “Canadians are holding Private Dal Bianco’s loved ones, and all those still grieving in the wake of this terrible tragedy, in our hearts.”
As of Saturday, 24 military personnel remained in hospital receiving treatment and 14 had been released, the Canadian Armed Forces said. A total of 38 military personnel were injured.
Members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group had been conducting live-fire training at the base when the fire started. Military officials said the blaze crossed a kilometre in a matter of seconds, catching many people at the base by surprise.
Firefighters battled the blaze through the night, while nearby hospitals were inundated with injured personnel and staff. Carney described the incident as “one of the worst tragedies for the forces on Canadian soil in peacetime”.
An investigation found the fire was likely sparked by a grenade launcher fired at the base’s grenade range, officials said. Firefighters at the base had known about the fire but could not tackle it because it was in a danger area that could contain unexploded explosives.
Chief of the Defence Staff Gen Jennie Carignan said the armed forces were “heartbroken” by Dal Bianco’s death. Defence Minister David McGuinty offered his “deepest condolences” to Dal Bianco’s family, friends and colleagues.
“No words can ease the pain of losing a loved one, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by this tragedy,” McGuinty said.
“We remain committed to supporting the families and the Canadian Armed Forces community during this profoundly difficult time, and to honouring Private Dal Bianco’s service, dedication and sacrifice to Canada,” he added.
