Admiral Art McDonald, has stepped down ahead of an investigation into unspecified allegations.
Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan made the bombshell announcement late last night.
He said McDonald left the post voluntarily, and the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service had been tasked to look into the matter.
Lieutenant General Wayne Eyre is taking over the role of acting chief of the defence staff.
Picture of Assault Suspect Released
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Premier Fumes Over Gas Price Increase
Doug Ford pointed out there's been no change in places like Chicago or Minnesota
Niagara Falls Man Charged with Fraud
Police say it was concerning construction jobs that didn't get done, after payment
Arrests Made in Armed Residential Robbery
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Fort Erie Man Wins Lottery
Scott Serada is bringing home $100,000 courtesy of Instant Gold Pursuit
Councillor Disputes Speed Camera Claims
One claim he addressed is about speed camera company having control of tickets
Gas Prices to Skyrocket in Niagara
Gas analyst says it'll go up 14-cents overnight, largely blaming switch from winter to summer gas
Gord Singleton to be Honoured Tonight
Niagara Falls will be lit up in the Olympic ring colours