Canadian soldier dies in Afghanistan

Bombardier Karl Manning became the 156th Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan and the second to be killed in 2011.

Manning, 31, was "found dead from non-combat related wounds at approximately 5:30 a.m. local Kandahar time on Friday at Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Zangabad, " the military said in a press release.

According to the statement, an investigation is underway and "enemy action has been ruled out."

Manning joined the Canadian Forces three years ago and deployed to Kandahar on his first foreign tour last December with the 1 Royal 22e Regiment battle group.

In a statement issued early Saturday morning, Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, said, “It is with the utmost sorrow that I offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Bombardier Karl Manning, who died yesterday in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.

"The Canadian Forces continue to make a positive difference in Afghanistan while protecting and promoting both Canadian and international security. Canadians are grateful for Bdr Manning’s service and are proud of the contributions of all the men and women in uniform."

This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada. Bdr Manning’s hard work and dedication will not be forgotten.”