Army Investigating Mysterious Death at Fort Leonard Wood

Army investigators are treating the death of Sgt. Sarah Roque at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as a homicide, raising concerns about safety on military bases.

At a Glance

Sgt. Sarah Roque, 23, was found dead after being reported missing at Fort Leonard Wood.
Army Criminal Investigation Division is treating the case as a homicide.
Roque was a K9 handler with the 5th Engineer Battalion and had received several awards.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is forming a coalition to assist with the investigation.
This case follows other recent incidents involving Hispanic women in the Army.

Sergeant’s Death Sparks Homicide Investigation

The U.S. Army has launched a homicide investigation following the death of Sergeant Sarah Roque at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Roque, a 23-year-old Hispanic woman from Ligonier, Indiana, was found deceased after a “be on the lookout” notice was issued when she missed formation on Monday. The Army Criminal Investigation Division is now leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Sgt. Roque, who enlisted in the Army in 2020, was assigned to the 5th Engineer Battalion and served as a handler with the K9 detachment. Her service record includes several commendations, such as the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

The Army is investigating the death of a SGT Sarah Roque at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as a homicide, officials said Wednesday. https://t.co/euMpuYW2Se

— Task & Purpose (@TaskandPurpose) October 24, 2024

Military Leadership Responds

Major General Christopher Beck, commanding officer at Fort Leonard Wood, issued a statement expressing condolences and highlighting Roque’s service. The base leadership emphasized their commitment to supporting those affected by this tragedy while the investigation unfolds.

“Sergeant Roque was a daughter, sister, friend and soldier who chose to serve our country bravely and honorably. Her passing has caused a tremendous void throughout our team, and while there are no words to ease the pain, we continue to provide care, resources and support to those who are affected during this difficult time.” – Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck

Fort Leonard Wood officials initially issued a missing person alert for Roque before the tragic discovery. The base, a major U.S. Army training installation located in the Missouri Ozarks, is now at the center of this developing story that has caught national attention.

Concerns Raised About Safety of Latina Soldiers

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has announced the formation of a coalition to assist with the investigation into Roque’s death. This move comes in the wake of other recent cases involving Hispanic women in the Army, raising concerns about the safety of Latina soldiers.

“The tragedy of Katia Duenas-Aguilar echoes the painful memories of other fallen soldiers, such as U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen, whose murder in 2020 at Fort Hood, Texas, sparked national outrage and led to significant policy changes aimed at protecting service members from violence and abuse while in the military.” – LULAC

The case of Private First-Class Katia Duenas-Aguilar, found dead in May near Fort Campbell, Kentucky, with multiple stab wounds, remains unsolved. These incidents have prompted LULAC to express caution regarding enlistment for Latina women until more robust safety measures are implemented.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact

As the Army Criminal Investigation Division continues its work, the Fort Leonard Wood community grapples with the loss of a dedicated soldier. Sgt. Roque’s role as a bridge crew member and mine dog handler underscores the diverse skills she brought to her service.

The Army has stated that updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available.