Canadian Navy sailor dies after boat capsizes in Halifax’s Bedford Basin

A sailor with the Royal Canadian Navy has died after an incident during small-boat operations in Halifax’s Bedford Basin on Friday night.

According to a statement from the Maritime Forces, two sailors were operating a rigid-hull inflatable that overturned and capsized at about 10 p.m. on Friday.

Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre Halifax co-ordinated a rescue with ships that were detached from the Canadian Coast Guard. The two sailors in the boat were pulled from the water and brought to Mill Cove jetty, where paramedics transferred them to the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax.

One sailor was treated and released from the hospital the same night. Another sailor could not be resuscitated.

“Out of respect for the next of kin, the sailor’s name is not being released at this time, said the statement, written by Maj. Trevor Ackland.

“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of our sailor. Their dedication and service to our country will always be remembered and honoured. Our thoughts are with their family, friends, and fellow sailors during this difficult time,” Commodore Jacob French, commander of Canadian Fleet Atlantic, said in the statement.

The incident is currently being investigated by the Military Police. A spokesperson for the navy declined an interview request.