Son of Oro-Medonte, Ont., mayoral candidate 'critically injured' in CFB Wainwright fire
Cathy Keane, a mayoral candidate in Oro-Medonte, Ontario, has suspended her campaign activities after her son was critically injured in a deadly fire at CFB Wainwright. The incident, which resulted in multiple fatalities and dozens of hospitalizations, has prompted an outpouring of support from local political figures.
Why it matters
The tragedy highlights the human impact of military training accidents and the personal challenges faced by public figures during crises.
Cathy Keane, who's running for mayor in Oro-Medonte, Ont., says the family received "devastating" news overnight Saturday that her eldest son is among the dozens of military members injured in the Wainwright fire.
Four service members also died after the fire broke out in a large training area Saturday afternoon, officials say.
"As a mother, right now I need to be with my son and family," Keane said in a Facebook post on Sunday.
She said she would be "unable to continue door-knocking" for the rest of her campaign, but assured Oro-Medonte residents that she was still running for mayor.
"My belief in this community and the future we can build together has not changed," said Keane, a former township councillor for the municipality, which is located about 85 kilometres north of Toronto.
"Right now, I ask for your understanding as our family navigates an incredibly difficult and uncertain time."
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