Canadian Armed Forces say New Brunswick-based soldier has died in Latvia

A Canadian soldier has died in Latvia while serving with a NATO multinational brigade, the Canadian Armed Forces announced Thursday.

Canadian Soldier Dies in Latvia

Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, who was part of the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, died near Riga, Latvia, while on his first overseas deployment. He was almost three years into his service with the military.

The circumstances surrounding Halmagean’s death are currently under investigation by the Canadian Forces Military Police, with support from Latvian State Police. The Canadian Armed Forces stated that further details will not be provided at this time to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

Halmagean was originally from Hamilton, Ontario, and was posted to the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support), Royal Canadian Artillery, part of 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade, based at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in New Brunswick.

“The passing of Gunner Halmagean is a loss deeply felt for the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Gen. Jennie Carignan, chief of the defence staff, in a news release. “On behalf of all our members, I offer my heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones and those who served alongside him.”

Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin, commander of the Canadian Joint Operations Command, added that Halmagean deployed on Operation Reassurance with a sense of duty to his country. “My condolences and thoughts are with Gunner Halmagean’s family and loved ones in this very difficult time,” he said.

According to a social media post from a man identifying himself as Halmagean’s father, the soldier had previously assisted in extinguishing fires in Newfoundland and Labrador last year. The post indicated Halmagean was “immensely proud to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and his country,” and requested privacy for the family.

Latvia is currently hosting a multinational deployment of troops as part of efforts to deter Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Canada leads the deployment in Latvia, with approximately 2,000 troops stationed there. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced in August an extension of Operation Reassurance for another three years, through to 2029.

The Canadian Armed Forces stated there is no indication the incident poses an increased threat to other soldiers.