Canadian Armed Forces Member Dies While Deployed in Latvia

A member of the Canadian Armed Forces has died while on deployment in Latvia, the Department of National Defence confirmed in a statement. Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, originally from Hamilton, Ontario, passed away on Jan. 29, 2026, near Riga while serving as part of Operation Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to NATO’s mission to deter aggression on the alliance’s eastern flank.

The Department of National Defence said Halmagean was assigned to the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support) of the Royal Canadian Artillery, part of the 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade based at 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in New Brunswick. He had served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years and this was his first overseas deployment.

Halmagean was deployed with the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, operating within the Air Defence Battery of the Multinational Artillery Battalion Group. More than 3,000 Canadian personnel rotate through the Latvia mission each year, making it Canada’s largest overseas NATO deployment. Ottawa announced an extension of the mission in 2025, committing to continued participation through 2029.

The exact circumstances of his death remain under investigation by the Latvian Military Police with support from the Canadian Forces Military Police, and the Department of National Defence said no further details would be released at this time. Officials also noted that there is currently no indication the incident represents a broader threat to the safety or security of other deployed members.

Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan, expressed deep sorrow over Halmagean’s passing, offering condolences to his loved ones and acknowledging his dedication and service to the country. Other senior defence officials, including Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin and Defence Minister David McGuinty, also shared condolences, as did Prime Minister Mark Carney, who said Canadians are stronger for Halmagean’s service.

Gunner Halmagean’s death marks a solemn moment for the Canadian Armed Forces and highlights the risks faced by service members on missions abroad. As part of NATO’s ongoing deterrence posture in Eastern Europe, Canadian troops continue to operate alongside allied forces in support of collective security and stability.