Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri — A person of interest has been arrested in connection with the killing of Sgt. Sarah Roque.
Roque, 23, of Ligonier, Indiana, was reported missing on Monday, Oct. 21, after she failed to report for morning unit formation.
According to a press statement from Fort Leonard Wood, Roque was a bridge crew member who worked as a mine dog handler for the K9 Detachment, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Engineer Battalion. She enlisted in 2020 and went through basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood. Roque has received several distinctions and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.
During a press conference on Thursday, Beck stated that within three hours of Roque not reporting, a “BOLO” (be on the lookout) was issued for him as a missing person. The public was asked to aid that afternoon, but she was discovered dead later that evening. According to reports, her body was discovered in a dumpster near the single soldier barracks.
“This devastating loss deeply saddens the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood team, and we send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow Soldiers of Sergeant Roque,” Beck stated in a news statement. “Sergeant Roque was a daughter, sister, friend, and soldier who decided to serve our country with courage and honor. Her departure has left a huge vacuum in our team, and while there are no words to soothe the pain, we will continue to provide care, resources, and support to those who are affected during this difficult time.”
During Thursday’s news conference, Beck stated that Roque’s death was being examined as a homicide. A person of interest has been taken into custody.
“Sarah not only served our country bravely and honorably as a soldier, she was also a daughter, a sister, and a friend to many,” Beck told the media. “As a commander and leader, this is a disaster. This is something we never want to happen; neither the family nor the unit should have to ensure. “Our hearts go out to these people.”
The Department of Army Criminal Investigation Division continues to investigate the incident. Updates will be released as they become available, however, Special Agent John McCabe, Criminal Investigation Division, stated that the division believes there is no immediate threat to the base or the community. McCabe stated at the Thursday press conference that the cause of death was still pending autopsy.
The town of Ligonier has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff until Roque’s burial.
Source: Ligonier woman found dead at Fort Leonard Wood; suspect arrested
