Windsor's mayor has commented in a post on Facebook about the tragedy at CFB Wainwright and at home after one of those injured at the base last weekend was identified as a Tecumseh man.
Private Daniel Thrasher suffered injuries last Sunday when high winds shifted the flames of a grass fire during a live ammunition training exercise.
Four soldiers died, and 39 were hurt. Thrasher is among 13 who remain in critical condition.
"My thoughts and prayers are with Private Daniel Thrasher, a young man from our Windsor-Essex community who was critically injured while serving at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, Alberta, as well as his loved ones, and every family affected by this devastating tragedy," wrote Drew Dilkens. "Now, during one of the most difficult moments, it is our turn to stand behind him and his family."
As reported on Wednesday, Thrasher was a student at L'Essor Catholic Secondary School and the University of Windsor. He also worked in the parks department for the Town of Tecumseh.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support the Thrasher family. As of Thursday morning, it had raised more than $87,000 of its $100,000 goal.
"While the Canadian armed forces will be covering certain expenses, there will undoubtedly be additional unforeseen costs as Daniel and his family face a long and difficult road to recovery," read the campaign. "We are looking to help ease the financial burden on Daniel's family so they can focus on what matters most: being there for him."
"The Thrashers have always been there for others and have always given back to their community," the campaign continued. "Now, we want to show up for them with that same kindness and generosity."
