A Canadian soldier was killed Friday when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in southern Afghanistan, the military said.

Pte. Terry John Street, 24, was a member of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Man.
(Department of National Defence)

Pte. Terry John Street, 24, of Gatineau (formerly Hull), Que., was killed at about 6:15 p.m. local time in the Panjwaii district of Kandahar province, Brig.-Gen. Guy Laroche told reporters early Saturday at Kandahar Airfield.

Street was a member of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Man., said Laroche, commander of Canadian forces in Afghanistan.

The soldier and his colleagues were redeploying for the evening following their day's activities in the area when the device detonated, Laroche said.

The death brings Canada's toll in Afghanistan to 82 soldiers and one diplomat since the mission began in early 2002.

Laroche extended condolences to Street's family, friends and comrades.

The presence of Canadian troops and their efforts give hope to the citizens of Afghanistan, Laroche added.

"Some of them have known decades of war and oppression, while others are just beginning their lives," he said. "I can only hope these thoughts will be of some comfort to the family and friends of Pte. Street in this time of grief."

Harper pays tribute to private

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who is in Poland, paid tribute to Street in a statement issued Friday.

"Private Street served his country with pride and selfless dedication," the statement said. "He will forever be remembered as an example of bravery and outstanding dedication."

Improvised explosive devices, commonly known as IEDs, are becoming an increasing threat to Canadian soldiers in Kandahar province as Taliban insurgents pull back from direct engagements.

"We have seen more IEDs during the past few years, but also, we have discovered more," Laroche said.

He said local Afghans are helping Canadian troops by letting them know where some of the bombs are located, but it's difficult to eliminate the threat.

"I think we're making progress in all of this, even though the threat is very important, obviously," he said.