Canadian Soldier Dies While Serving on NATO Mission in Latvia
The Department of National Defence has confirmed the death of a Canadian Armed Forces member deployed overseas on Operation Reassurance. Gunner Sebastian Halmagean died near Riga, Latvia, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, while serving as part of the NATO-led mission.
Details of the Incident and Ongoing Investigation
Halmagean was deployed with the Air Defence Battery within the Multinational Artillery Battalion Group at NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. The Latvian military police, with support from Canadian Forces military police, are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Department of National Defence stated: "The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Halmagean's death by the Latvian military police, with support from the Canadian Forces military police, is ongoing. At this time, there is no indication this incident poses an increased threat to the safety and security of our deployed members."
No further details about how Halmagean died have been released publicly at this time.
Military Leadership Expresses Condolences
Chief of the Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating: "The passing of Gunner Halmagean is a loss deeply felt for the Canadian Armed Forces. On behalf of all our members, I offer my heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones and those who served alongside him."
She added: "Gunner Halmagean was at the beginning of a promising career, and we will remember his dedication and commitment to service. Our thoughts are with all who knew him during this profoundly difficult time."
Background of the Deceased Soldier
Gunner Sebastian Halmagean was originally from Hamilton, Ontario, and had served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years. This was his first overseas deployment. He was posted to the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support), Royal Canadian Artillery, part of 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade, based at 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, New Brunswick.
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command, said: "It is with great sorrow that I learned of the death of Gunner Sebastian Halmagean. As a member of the Canadian Armed Forces in the early stage of his career, and on his first overseas deployment, Gunner Halmagean deployed on Operation Reassurance with a sense of duty to serve his country."
He continued: "My condolences and thoughts are with Gunner Halmagean's family and loved ones in this very difficult time."
Operation Reassurance Context
Operation Reassurance represents Canada's contribution to NATO assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe. More than 3,000 Canadian Armed Forces members are deployed throughout the year in support of this operation.
In August 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the renewal of Operation Reassurance for another three years during a visit to Latvia, underscoring Canada's ongoing commitment to NATO's eastern flank security.
The death of Gunner Halmagean marks a somber moment for the Canadian military community, particularly as it involves a young soldier at the beginning of what military leadership described as "a promising career" in service to his country.
