Canadian Armed Forces Member dies in Latvia on Operation REASSURANCE
Press Release
January 30, 2026 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, a Canadian Armed Forces member deployed on Operation REASSURANCE in Latvia and who was employed by the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, died near Riga, Latvia, on January 29, 2026.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gunner 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.
Gunner 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, which is based at 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, New Brunswick.
Gunner Halmagean was deployed on Operation REASSURANCE as part of the Air Defence Battery within the Multinational Artillery Battalion Group at NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. He had served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years. This was his first overseas deployment.
Quotes
“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. 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.”
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff
“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. My condolences and thoughts are with Gunner Halmagean’s family and loved ones in this very difficult time.”
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command
How exactly did he die? I feel this was intentionally with held by the military.
This constant death reports of CAF-members, at least one every other few months, should stop being swept under the rug, as Latvia 🇱🇻 isn't even a direct combat zone and members are dying this frequently - What now happens if proper fighting kicks off?
Where are his buddies and pair-mates supposed to watch over a "baby" soldier like him?
The media shouldn't let this go until a comprehensive report on all members who've died in Latvia in the last 3yrs, are honestly addressed.
Is there some gray Ops going on in Latvia that the wider public aren't aware of?