B.C.-based soldier confirmed as Canadian killed in live-fire exercise in Alberta
Posted October 31, 2020 11:01 pm.
Last Updated November 2, 2020 12:38 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
EDMONTON (NEWS 1130) — The Canadian soldier killed in a training accident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in eastern Alberta has been identified as B.C.-based Cpl. James Choi.
The Royal Westminster Regiment in New Westminster confirmed the soldier’s identity with NEWS 1130.
He was 29 years old.
In a statement, the regiment says Cpl. Choi was hurt during a live-fire training exercise called “Ex Spartan Ram.”
Corporal James Choi, a member of the Royal Westminster Regiment, based in New Westminster, B.C., died on October 31, 2020 as the result of a gunshot wound sustained while training. https://t.co/bYdNx8MGON
He died serving Canada, we will remember him. pic.twitter.com/CoJqopIuPq
— Canadian Armed Forces (@CanadianForces) November 1, 2020
The regiment says the soldier was with the 3rd Battalion of the Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry.
Choi was shot in the torso Friday night and was airlifted to Wainwright Medical Clinic.
Shortly after, he was moved again to Edmonton where he was admitted to Royal Alexandria Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries Saturday morning.
On behalf of all the staff at NWPD we offer our deepest condolences to the friends, family, and colleagues of this soldier. Your service to our country will not be forgotten. #newwest https://t.co/eyXpEbxorM
— New Westminster Police Department (@NewWestPD) November 1, 2020
The circumstances surrounding his shooting remain unclear at this point.
The incident is under investigation, according to the Canadian Armed Forces.
“The Canadian Armed Forces mourns the loss of Cpl. James Choi. He represented Canada with honour, dedicating himself to his profession. We grieve alongside his family, friends and comrades,” says General Jonathan Vance, chief of the defence staff.
Choi’s death prompted condolences from across the country, including from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and National Defense Minister, Harjit Sajjan.
My thoughts are with the family and friends of the Canadian Armed Forces’ member who we tragically lost in a training accident in Wainwright, Alberta. We will be there to support the family during this difficult time. The @CanadianForces have started a thorough investigation.
— Harjit Sajjan (@HarjitSajjan) October 31, 2020
More information about Choi himself is expected to be forthcoming on Monday.
– With files from The Canadian Press
