See more Toronto Sun on Google — save as a Preferred Source
A fifth soldier has died following the devastating grass fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright during training exercises last month.
The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces said in a joint statement that Pte. William Douglas Dal Bianco died of his injuries Friday while receiving medical treatment in Ontario.
Dal Bianco, of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, was involved in a live fire training exercise on a range at the Alberta base on Oct. 17 when a grass fire ignited and then quickly spread due to high winds, which overwhelmed armed forces members.
‘Heartbroken by the loss’
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Private William Douglas Dal Bianco,” Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan said in statement.
“On behalf of the entire Canadian Armed Forces, I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who knew and served alongside him.”
It is with profound sadness that the Canadian Armed Forces confirms the death of a fifth soldier who was receiving medical care in Ontario following the tragic incident that occurred at CFB Wainwright on October 17, 2026. https://t.co/PTsj0rNrsF pic.twitter.com/LyqrkpAbDv
— Canadian Armed Forces (@CanadianForces) November 14, 2026
Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark were also killed during the exercise. In addition, nearly 40 others suffered injuries.
Two dozen soldiers still in hospital
Meanwhile, military officials said in the update that 24 armed forces members are still in hospital receiving treatment while 14 others have since been released.
Major-Gen. Wade Rutland said the army remains “committed to supporting those affected and supporting the well-being of our people.”
“No words can ease the pain of losing a loved one, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by this tragedy,” Minister of National Defence David 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.”
Training to defend Canada
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Dal Bianco and his fellow soldiers were training to defend Canada.
“Canadians are holding Private Dal Bianco’s loved ones, and all those still grieving in the wake of this terrible tragedy, in our hearts,” Carney said in a statement shared to Facebook .
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said on social media she is “heartbroken” to learn about Dal Bianco’s death.
“Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and Canadian Armed Forces community mourning this profound loss,” Smith shared on Instagram .
The tragedy remains under investigation.
