King Charles ‘immensely saddened’ by fire devastation in Jasper

JASPER, ANOTHER. — King Charles says he and his wife, Queen Camilla, are “immensely saddened” to see the damage caused by the massive fires in Jasper National Park.

He says the scenic tourist destination in the Alberta Rockies is a “truly magical place” that has captivated travelers from across Canada and abroad.

The King expressed his sympathy for those whose lives and livelihoods were affected, especially those who lost their properties and were forced to leave.

He thanked first responders, community volunteers and leaders who stepped in to help and congratulated Canadians who lent a hand.

Federal officials said about a third of the buildings in the town of Jasper were lost in the blaze and there was little firefighters could do to combat such a large and powerful inferno.

About 25,000 people, including 5,000 city residents, were ordered to leave just over a week ago as the fast-moving flames closed in.

“These are dark times, but we greatly admire the strength and resilience of so many people to persevere and rebuild,” King Charles said in a written statement distributed through Rideau Hall.

“The number of firefighters who have come from around the world to offer their services speaks not only to the sense of solidarity that exists within that professional community, but also to the high regard in which Canada and Canadians are held around the world.”

The King first came to visit the park in 1939, when King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, stayed at Jasper Park Lodge’s Outlook Cottage. Their daughter Queen Elizabeth II stayed there with her husband Prince Philip in 2005.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on July 30, 2024.

The Canadian Press