Hamilton soldier who died in Latvia was immensely proud to serve, father says

Sebastian Halmagean, 24, died near Riga while on his first deployment to Latvia, and the Department of National Defence says his death is under investigation by CAF police with support from Latvian State Police.

Sebastian Halmagean, 24, from Hamilton, died near the Latvian capital of Riga while on his first deployment to Latvia, the Department of National Defence said. His father said Halmagean was immensely proud to be part of the Canadian Armed Forces and cherished his role. The DND announced the death is under investigation by Canadian Armed Forces police with support from Latvian State Police and said no further information will be provided. Known details: - Sebastian Halmagean was 24 and from Hamilton; he served as a gunner based at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, New Brunswick. - The DND said Halmagean died near Riga while on deployment to Latvia and that the circumstances are under investigation by CAF police with support from Latvian State Police. - His father described him as immensely proud to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and noted Halmagean had been involved in firefighting efforts in Newfoundland and Labrador the previous year. - A local Member of Parliament said the death was devastating to the Stoney Creek community. Summary: The Department of National Defence has announced an investigation into Halmagean's death and is working with Latvian authorities. The timeline for further information or conclusions has not been announced. Undetermined at this time.