The Canadian Forces Military Police have charged two Royal Canadian Navy members following the tragic death of Petty Officer 2nd Class Gregory Applin. This incident occurred on January 24, 2025, in Halifax Harbour, where Applin’s inflatable boat overturned after colliding with an unlit buoy.
Charges Against Navy Members
Master Sailor David Terry faces charges of criminal negligence causing bodily harm and negligent performance of military duties. Sailor 1st Class Alexandre Garrison is charged with dangerous operation of a conveyance causing death, along with negligent performance of military duties.
- David Terry: Master Sailor on HMCS Montreal
- Alexandre Garrison: Sailor 1st Class from the Naval Fleet School (Atlantic)
Incident Details
On the night of Applin’s death, HMCS Montreal was conducting sea trials in Bedford Basin. The rigid-hull inflatable boat, transporting staff back to the shore, struck an unlit buoy. Applin and another crew member were thrown into the cold waters at approximately 9:25 p.m. AT.
The temperature that night was around –7°C, with a wind chill of approximately –10°C. Waves were less than one metre high. Shortly after the incident, a nearby pilot ship responded to a 911 call from the crew member who had also fallen into the water. Both individuals were rescued by 9:55 p.m. AT and taken to the hospital. Unfortunately, Applin could not be resuscitated.
Background of Gregory Applin
Gregory Applin, aged 38, served the Royal Canadian Navy for 19 years. He hailed from Shoal Cove West, Newfoundland and Labrador. Prior to his death, Applin worked as a weapons engineering technician and participated in a deployment to the Indo-Pacific that returned in October 2024.
Official Statements
Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Pascal Harel released a joint statement addressing the charges. They emphasized the complexities and risks of military operations. Their statement acknowledged the significant toll of Applin’s death on the navy community and extended condolences to his family.
Brigadier-General Vanessa Hanrahan, the Canadian Forces provost marshal, confirmed that the military police investigation has concluded. If the charges are prosecuted, they will be addressed within the military justice system.
The outcome is under scrutiny, with the command emphasizing that incidents of this nature often stem from multiple contributing factors rather than a single error. The two accused will have an opportunity to present their defense during the upcoming judicial proceedings.
