Michelle LevesqueThe search for Leading Seaman Benoit Bilodeau ended tragically Monday afternoon after a citizen found Bilodeau deceased on Shearwater Flyer Trail, a wooded trail off of Howard Ave, according to Halifax RCMP.
Bilodeau who was reported missing on Nov. 25, 2015 and last seen on Nov. 21 near 12 Wing Shearwater.
Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic said the following in a statement:
“On behalf of all in the Royal Canadian Navy, I extend our most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Leading Seaman Bilodeau gave the Royal Canadian Navy 29 years of service, with many of those years spent at sea.
“Any tragic incident of loss always invites us to reflect on how we care for each other. We take this time to think warmly of our shared service with Leading Seaman Bilodeau and the professionalism and support that he offered his commanders, shipmates and trade.
“As a mark of respect for our colleague, his family and his friends, I invite you not to speculate on what happened. The proper authorities will complete their investigation in due course.
“Thank you most sincerely to all those personnel who supported the investigation, searches, family contact and ultimate resolution of this sad matter.”
The RCMP, Halifax Regional Police, regional Search and Rescue teams, and the Canadian Forces National Investigative Service were all working to find Benoit.
“Hope for Benoit was never given up and searches and chasing leads never waned,” said Newton.
An investigation is currently on going. The police do not suspect foul play at this time.
