In a tragic turn of events, one person lost their life and several others were injured when a large event tent collapsed at Tu Viện Tây Thiên – Westlock Meditation Center on Wednesday evening. The incident, attributed to severe weather conditions, has left the community in shock as authorities investigate the circumstances leading to this catastrophe.
The collapse occurred at the Westlock Meditation Centre in Busby, Alberta, around 70 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. At approximately 5:30 p.m. MT, high winds are believed to have caused the tent, which was sheltering hundreds of participants, to fall. The retreat, a ten-day event organized by the Edmonton Buddhist Research Institute, draws attendees from around the world.
Multiple RCMP detachments, EMS, and firefighters swiftly arrived at the scene. Despite their quick response, one individual succumbed to their injuries. Several others sustained severe injuries, while some escaped with minor cuts and bruises. Authorities have withheld the identities of the victims pending notification of their families.
Attendees described a sudden and chaotic scene as the tent collapsed. Those who were able to escape did so with minor injuries, while others found themselves trapped under the debris until emergency responders arrived. The aftermath saw many in shock, with some praying and bowing towards the collapsed structure.
Severe weather, including strong winds, likely played a significant role in the tent collapse. Environment Canada had issued weather advisories for parts of Alberta, warning of high winds and potential storms. While exact wind speeds at the time are still being determined, preliminary reports suggest they were strong enough to undermine the tent’s structural integrity.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the tent collapse. The RCMP, in collaboration with safety inspectors, is examining the tent’s structural design, setup procedures, and any potential negligence. While severe weather is believed to be a major factor, a comprehensive investigation will provide more definitive answers.