A local mayoral candidate’s son has been seriously hurt in the tragedy at CFB Wainwright, Alberta. Cathy Keane, who’s running for mayor of Oro-Medonte, shared in a social media post on Sunday morning that her family received the news overnight that her eldest son is among the military personnel who have been critically injured. Keane says while she is still in the mayoral race, she will be unable to continue door-knocking for the rest of the campaign as she is heading to Alberta. “As a mother, right now I need to be with my son and family,” she says in the post. Reaction from Simcoe County community leaders Some local leaders in our community have addressed the tragedy, including Oro-Medonte Mayor Randy Greenlaw. “I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic incident at CFB Wainwright and the devastating impact it has had on those involved and their families,” Greenlaw tells CTV News. “My heartfelt thoughts are with Cathy Keane and her family during this incredibly difficult time, as well as all the Canadian Armed Forces members and families affected by this tragedy.” The MPs in our region have also reacted to the tragedy. “Nothing else matters this day except for the well being of our Canadian Forces members and their families,” says MP for Barrie South—Innisfil John Brassard. “May God bless those who have been lost, heal those who have been injured, and comfort with the collective love of a nation those who are grieving.” MP for Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte Doug Shipley referenced Keane in his post. “A member of a local Oro-Medonte family was critically injured in a tragic incident involving our Canadian Armed Forces at CFB Wainwright last night,” Shipley says. “Please see the statement below from Cathy Keane and keep her family in your thoughts during this difficult time.” Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney also weighed in, saying in part: “At times like these, we are reminded of the importance of coming together and standing in support of the men and women of our Canadian Armed Forces and their families, who give so much in service to our country.” Local legions are sending their condolences also. The Orillia Legion says it will be lowering its flag to half-mast.
