TORONTO – The RCMP is investigating after a Canadian soldier was found dead in his civilian residence in Fredericton, New Brunswick, the Department of National Defence confirms.
Warrant Officer Martin Mercier was discovered by police the morning of February 10. The exact date and time of his death has not been confirmed, but Global News has learned it is an apparent suicide.
READ MORE: A timeline of recent soldier suicides in Canada’s military
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“The loss of any soldier is difficult for the military community and our condolences go out to his family and friends,” DND said in a statement.
Mercier was a member of the Reserve Force based at the 5 Canadian Division Support Base in Gagetown, New Brunswick.
DND says Mercier joined the Canadian Armed Forces in April 1985. He served in Afghanistan, Rwanda, Somalia and Cyprus.
Since November of last year, at least eight soldiers have taken their own lives.
READ MORE: Veterans call for long-term support as another soldier dies by apparent suicide
The federal government has said that “great efforts” are being made to provide support for members of the Canadian military “going through difficult times” and a social media campaign is in place encouraging soldiers to come together and act as a support system for fellow comrades.
-With files from Heather Loney and Irene Ogrodnik
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