Canadian Soldier Based in Gagetown Passes Away During Latvia Deployment

OTTAWA – The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have confirmed the death of Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, a member of the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support) based in New Brunswick. Halmagean passed away on January 29, 2026, while deployed in Latvia.

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Key Details of the Incident

• Mission: Halmagean was serving under Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s ongoing commitment to NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence in Eastern Europe.
• Service History: Originally from Hamilton, Ontario, he had served in the CAF for three years. This was his first overseas deployment.
• Location: The incident occurred near Riga, Latvia, where he was part of an Air Defence Battery.

Investigation and Mission Status

The Latvian Military Police, supported by the Canadian Forces Military Police, have launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death. While the cause has not yet been released, defense officials emphasized that there is no evidence of a security threat to other personnel or the mission’s overall stability.

Leadership Response

• General Jennie Carignan (Chief of the Defence Staff): Expressed that the loss is “deeply felt” across the entire military community.
• Prime Minister Mark Carney: Issued a statement honoring Halmagean’s service and offering condolences to his family and colleagues at CFB Gagetown.

Gunner Halmagean’s death marks a somber moment for the 5th Canadian Division, as he was a key member of the specialized Air Defence units currently fortifying NATO’s eastern flank.