Missing US Army K9 Handler Found Dead in Dumpster; Person of Interest Detained
A U.S. Army sergeant, reported missing earlier Monday, was tragically found dead that night, according to Stars and Stripes.
Authorities issued a missing-person alert for Sgt. Sarah Roque, 23, after she failed to appear at formation at Missouri’s Fort Leonard Wood Base. The alert noted that her family and military command had been unable to contact her.
Later that evening, Roque’s body was discovered in a dumpster near the single-soldier quarters on base, as announced by Major General Christopher Beck during a Thursday news conference.
Currently, law enforcement has a person of interest in custody; however, no charges have been filed, and limited details have been shared due to the ongoing investigation, Military.com reported.
The Army Criminal Investigation Division is examining Roque’s death as a possible homicide.
“On behalf of Fort Leonard Wood and the entire United States Army, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Sgt. Sarah Roque,” Beck said in the news conference. “The Fort Leonard Wood community is devastated by this tragic loss.”
“Sarah was a soldier and a leader in the 5th Engineer Battalion, described by her peers as tough and proud of everything she did, and proud to serve our country, which she did with honor and distinction."
“As our team continues to mourn, please know that our focus remains on providing the care, support, and resources needed during this difficult time for the unit and, most importantly, the family,” he continued.
A Fort Leonard Wood soldier reported missing has been found dead.
— Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) October 22, 2024
Sgt. Sarah Roque, 23, did not report to formation Monday morning, and Fort Leonard Wood police issued a missing-person alert for her.
The statement released about her death did not state when or where she was… pic.twitter.com/PAv3S1g0Q4
Originally from Ligonier, Indiana, Roque enlisted in 2020 and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, according to Stars and Stripes.
As a mine dog handler in the 5th Engineer Battalion’s K9 detachment, Roque earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
“Sarah not only served our country bravely and honorably as a soldier,” Beck shared, “She was also a daughter, a sister, and a friend to many. The investigation remains a top priority for Fort Leonard Wood, and all agencies are cooperating to ensure the investigation is thorough and complete.”