‘A bright light’: Edmontonians mourn soldier killed in Wainwright fire
Posted October 20, 2026 5:35 pm.
A solider killed in a fire which broke out Canadian Forces base in Wainwright is being remembered in the Edmonton community as a leader and mentor.
Sgt. Morgan Wong is one of four soldiers killed in the tragic incident Saturday at the base located southeast of Edmonton.
Rhyneice Cook, community services coordinator, St. John Ambulance says she was shocked when a co-worker told her the tragic news.
“The first the came to my mind was like ‘oh my god that can’t be our Morgan!’’” Cook said.
Cook met Wong when an active volunteer was with Edmonton’s St. John ambulance. He was a medical-first responder for over four years.
“He was always out helping as best as he can,” Cook recalled. “He was a very quite subdued gentleman until you get to know him, kinda break down the walls and then he’s goofy and caring and funny.”
Cook says he brought so much knowledge and commitment to the team, describing him as a “bright light.”
“I don’t think I said ‘thank you’ enough to him for the commitment that he gave to the organization,” Cook said.
Wong, 26, graduated from Harry Ainlay High School and had a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta.
He was originally based out of Canadian forces base in Edmonton and was in Wainwright preparing for his second tour in Europe.
“I saw him two weeks ago at the AsiaFest event,” Cook said. “He was really excited about his recent promotion in the military, and he was just trying to get in a few more volunteer hours before he headed to base.”
Ward Kahiio Councillor Karen Tang said the whole Canadian Chinese community in Edmonton was mourning Wong’s loss.
“He’s an active volunteer and he sacrificed his life protecting the country, protecting the community and I think he is a model for young,” Tang said.
