Canadian Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

NR–08.011 - March 2, 2008

OTTAWA– At approximately 3:45 p.m. Kandahar time today, one Canadian soldier was killed when his armoured vehicle hit a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in the Mushan region, located in the District of Panjawayi, 45 km West of Kandahar City.

The next of kin have been advised but at the request of the family, the name of the soldier is being withheld.

The soldier was immediately evacuated from the scene by helicopter, but later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead upon his arrival at the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. His vehicle was part of a routine patrol during the time of the incident.

We have lost a fine Canadian today, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this brave soldier.