OilersNation has reported:

The Edmonton Oilers offered support to those affected by a deadly explosion at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright after defeating the Utah Mammoth 6-2 on Saturday. Seven people were killed and dozens injured in the incident, which happened hours before the game’s puck drop. The base is about 200 kilometres southeast of Edmonton.

Oilers winger Zach Hyman, who scored in the win, said after the game that he had just learned of the news. “I just heard the news about Wainwright, so first off, I just want to say everybody in this locker room is thinking about all the families and the tragedy that happened there,” he said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everybody there.

“The entire Oilers family are with you guys, so we’re all behind you.” Hyman appeared shaken and paused when asked about the game, holding back emotion before continuing.

Head coach Mike Babcock also addressed the explosion at his post-game press conference. “I don’t have all the details but enough, and it’s scary to say the least,” he said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people there… (We’re) praying for those families, and our thoughts go with them.”

The incident occurred at about 4 p.m. Mountain time during a live-fire training exercise that went awry and struck a gas line or well, according to Global News, which cited multiple Canadian Armed Forces sources. A fire is believed to have started, with wind gusts of up to 100 km/h fanning the flames. The Municipal District of Wainwright said in a statement posted on Facebook that the fire was contained by 10:48 p.m. MT.

Several Alberta hospitals were placed under Code Orange, CBC News reported. Dr. Warren Thirsk, an emergency department physician at Edmonton’s Royal Alexandra Hospital, described the incident as a “one in every 15 to 25-year disaster.”

In a statement posted on X on Oct. 18, 2026, the Oilers said: “The Edmonton Oilers extend our heartfelt thoughts to all those impacted by the tragic events unfolding at CFB Wainwright, including Canadian Armed Forces members and their families, first responders, and all those providing care and support during this difficult time.”

The team has annually honoured Canadian Armed Forces members at games. Its appreciation night this season is scheduled for Jan. 17, 2027, when Edmonton is set to play the Winnipeg Jets.