Accident claims life of Canadian soldier in Afghanistan

NEWS RELEASE

DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE

*********************** One Canadian soldier killed and four injured in a training accident

OTTAWA, ON (February 13, 2010) - One Canadian soldier was killed and four were injured in a training accident on a range located approximately 4 km northeast of Kandahar City.

The accident took place at about 5 p.m., Kandahar time, on February 12, 2010.

Killed in the accident was Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker, a member of The Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4th Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry), from Edmonton, Alberta, and serving with the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team.

This accident is non-battle related and an investigation by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) is under way to determine the circumstances.

The four injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield.

They are reported to be in stable condition and their names will not be released.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade at this sad time.

The commitment and sacrifice of our soldiers and their loved ones are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province and build a better future for Afghans. Canada is committed to bringing peace, stability and good governance to Afghanistan.

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