A member of the Canadian Armed Forces serving in Latvia, Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, tragically lost his life on January 29, 2026. This announcement was made by the Department of National Defence on the following Friday. Gunner Halmagean was part of the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia and was deployed under Operation Reassurance. Details regarding the circumstances of his death remain undisclosed, with the Canadian Armed Forces opting not to release further information to maintain the integrity of an ongoing police investigation.
The investigation into Halmagean’s death is being conducted by the Latvian Military Police, with assistance from the Canadian Forces Military Police. Officials have indicated that there is currently no evidence to suggest that this incident poses an increased threat to the safety and security of other deployed members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, expressed her sorrow regarding Gunner Halmagean’s passing, stating that it is a significant loss for the Canadian Armed Forces. She emphasized that Halmagean was at the outset of a promising career and acknowledged his dedication and commitment to service, offering condolences to all who knew him during this profoundly difficult time.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also shared his condolences publicly, remarking on social media that “Our country is stronger for his service.” He expressed his sadness upon learning of Halmagean’s passing and highlighted that this was Halmagean’s first overseas deployment with the Canadian Armed Forces.
Gunner Halmagean hailed from Hamilton, Ontario, and was posted to the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support) of the Royal Canadian Artillery, which is part of the 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade headquartered at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base in Gagetown, Oromocto, New Brunswick. Having served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years, this deployment to Latvia marked his first experience overseas.
In a heartfelt social media post, purported to be from Halmagean's father, it was mentioned that he had assisted in extinguishing wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador the previous year. The post conveyed that Halmagean was “immensely proud to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and his country,” and it requested privacy for the family as they navigate through the news of their loss.
Latvia hosts a multinational troop deployment aimed at deterring Russian aggression along Europe’s eastern flank and is one of several NATO battle brigades stationed in Eastern Europe. Canada leads this deployment, contributing approximately 2,000 troops. In August, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced an extension of Operation Reassurance for an additional three years, now projected to run until 2029.
As the investigation continues, the memory of Gunner Halmagean will be honored within the Canadian Armed Forces and by the communities he served, as they remember his dedication and the sacrifice he made for his country.
