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Sources say Canadian soldier found dead in Ont. last week committed suicide

File photo - Canadian soldiers patrol an area in the Dand district of southern Afghanistan on Sunday, June 7, 2009. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Colin Perkel

Another Canadian soldier who served in Afghanistan has committed suicide, Global News has learned.

DND will only confirm the death of Master Corporal Denis Demers, but sources say it was suicide. His body was discovered off the base in Petawawa, Ont. last Friday. The Ontario Provincial Police are currently investigating.

“No foul play suspected. This is a coroner’s investigation,” said OPP Sergeant Kristine Rae.

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INVISIBLE WOUNDS: Crisis in the military

Friends and colleagues posted Facebook messages remembering Demers.

“RIP buddy. Your huge heart and infectious smile will always be remembered. You have done so much to help myself and the guys. It breaks my heart that you are gone,” said Kevin Colwill.

Demers joined the Armed Forces in 2002. He was deployed to Afghanistan twice; once in 2008 and once in 2010.

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“The loss of any soldier is devastating to the military community and our condolences go out to his family and friends,” said Daniel Blouin, communications advisor with National Defence.

If you know someone who is having suicidal thoughts, or you believe they may be suffering from severe depression and/or anxiety, there are many organizations available to help: Canadian Mental Health Association; Health Canada.

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