Nanaimo-born pilot Cpt. Kevin Hagen was one of six who passed away when a Cyclone helicopter crashed off the coast of Greece. (Department of National Defense)

By The Canadian Press & NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

tragic crash

Remains of Nanaimo-born pilot identified after tragic helicopter crash

Jun 20, 2020 | 2:46 PM

NANAIMO – Four of the six Canadian Armed Forces Members who died in a helicopter crash off the coast of Greece, including a Nanaimo-born pilot, have had their remains identified.

The Department of National Defense confirmed in a release the remains found in the Ionian Sea after the late April crash were positively identified by a coroner on Thursday, June 18.

They include Capt. Kevin Hagen, a pilot originally from Nanaimo, B.C., Capt. Maxime Miron-Morin, an air combat systems officer originally from Becancour, Quebec, Sub-Lt. Matthew Pyke, a naval warfare officer originally from Truro, N.S., and Master Cpl. Matthew Cousins, an airborne electronic sensor operator originally from Guelph, Ont.

The remains of Sub-Lt. Abbigail Cowbrough, a marine systems engineering officer originally from Toronto, were previously identified shortly after the accident. Partial remains of Captain Brenden MacDonald, a pilot originally from New Glasgow, N.S., were originally identified on May 9.

A preliminary report released by the Royal Canadian Air Force says the crash occurred during the final maneuvering for a landing. The Cyclone flew past HMCS Fredericton and turned to set up for landing, but the helicopter did not respond as anticipated and crashed.

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The remains were found during a combined search and recovery operation with the United States Navy conducted between May 25 and June 2.

The military says the families of all crew members lost in the accident have been notified and the remains will be released to the families over the coming days.

Ceremonial arrangements are also being planned by the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force in consultation with the families, and details will be released at a later date.

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