01/31/2026
We hold heavy in our hearts today the death of Gunner Sebastian Halmagean during his service in Latvia.
Behind every uniform is an individual whose legacy will impact many. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, fellow serving members and all who love and care for him as the pain of his death is immeasurable.
We are reminded that those who show up to preserve our freedoms do so with risk. Please care for one another and seek support as needed. Thank you for your service Gunner.
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 at Camp Labrie on Ceri Military base, on January 29, 2026.
The circumstances surrounding Gunner Halmagean’s death is currently under investigation by the Canadian Forces Military Police with support from Latvian State Police, and no further information will be provided. 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.
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/news/2026/01/canadian-armed-forces-member-dies-in-latvia-on-operation-reassurance.html