Three people are dead and at least 16 others have been injured following a multi-vehicle collision and bus fire in northeast Calgary Thursday afternoon.
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Calgary police responded to the 800 block of Saddletowne Circle N.E. at approximately 1:11 p.m. on Oct. 15.
Calgary police increased the minimum reported injury count from 10 to 16 in an updated statement Thursday.
An earlier police release identified one person with life-altering injuries and another with serious injuries.
A Calgary Police Service officer also sustained minor injuries and was transported to hospital. Police have not clarified whether the officer is included in the updated injury count.
Police outline multi-vehicle collision
Staff Sgt. Andy Woodward of the Calgary Police Service Traffic Unit told reporters Thursday afternoon that the collision involved two Calgary Transit buses and several other vehicles.
Woodward described a series of collisions involving multiple vehicles, although the precise sequence of events remains under investigation.
Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth said firefighters responding to reports of a vehicle collision encountered a bus fire.
Crews worked to extinguish the blaze and extricate a bus driver.
A hazardous materials team was also deployed as part of the emergency response.
Dongworth said the nearby fire station allowed crews to respond quickly.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and the cause of the fire.
Political leaders and firefighters express condolences
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences Thursday following the deadly collision, acknowledging the families of those killed, people recovering from injuries and the wider Calgary community.
“To the families enduring this heartbreaking loss, to those recovering, and to everyone grieving in the community, know that Canadians are holding you close in our hearts.”
Carney also thanked first responders for their efforts caring for the injured.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith acknowledged the emergency crews and medical personnel responding to the tragedy.
“My sincere thoughts are with the families of those who died and with everyone injured.”
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas also issued a statement, identifying the collision site as near Saddletowne Station.
I’m heartbroken by the tragic collision involving two Calgary Transit buses near Saddletowne Station. Three people have died and ten are injured, including a Calgary Police Service member who attended on scene. My deepest condolences to the families grieving. We will provide updates ASAP.
— Jeromy (Pathfinder) Farkas (@JeromyYYC) October 15, 2026
“I’m heartbroken by the tragic collision involving two Calgary Transit buses near Saddletowne Station.”
Farkas extended condolences to grieving families and said further updates would be provided.
The Calgary Fire Fighters Association issued a statement acknowledging the impact on passengers, transit operators and families, while recognizing the emergency response.
“Your Calgary firefighters were there alongside our emergency response partners to help those in need. Today, our thoughts remain with the passengers, transit operators and families affected by this tragedy.”
Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi, who also serves as leader of the Official Opposition, issued a formal statement Thursday expressing condolences and thanking emergency responders and medical professionals.
“As investigations continue and more details emerge, there will be time to determine what led to this heartbreaking incident. For now, our thoughts remain with the victims, their loved ones, and the community as it copes with this tragedy.”
Police offer support to victims and witnesses
In its latest statement, Calgary police acknowledged the impact of the incident on those directly involved and the broader community.
Police directed people affected by the collision to its Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST), a free service available to victims and witnesses of crime or tragedy.