Four Canadian Armed Forces members killed, 39 injured

On October 17, at approximately 4:00 MDT, members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, were conducting live-fire training at CFB Wainwright as part of Exercise APOLLO SHOOTER.

While conducting training, a fire ignited and high wind speeds enabled the fire to grow and spread very rapidly overtaking the unit administrative area.

Four members confirmed killed during this exercise are:

• Sergeant Morgan Wong, from the Loyal Edmonton Regiment based at Edmonton, Alberta serving with 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry

• Private Shaun Farrell, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta

• Private Aidan Goulding, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta

• Private Hayden Lykkemark, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta
  

There are another 39 injured, and 19 of those have been critically injured.

The Canadian flag will fly at half-mast on federal buildings across Canada.

Minister of National Defence David McGuinty said, “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the four Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives. Canada mourns with the entire Canadian Armed Forces community during this profoundly difficult time. We remain committed to supporting all those affected and to honouring the service, dedication and sacrifice of these soldiers.”

Chief of the Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan stated, “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Sergeant Morgan Wong, Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding, and Private Hayden Lykkemark. On behalf of all our members, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues. We stand with them during this incredibly difficult time as we honour the service and dedication of our fallen. My thoughts are also with our injured members and their loved ones as they receive care and support. I am grateful to the first responders and medical teams who responded to this tragedy, and to everyone providing support to those affected.”