‘Person of interest’ in custody in Fort Leonard Wood soldier homicide

Editor’s observe: This text was up to date Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, with new data from the Military concerning developments within the investigation.

Military authorities have taken an individual of curiosity into custody within the loss of life of a Fort Leonard Wooden, Missouri, soldier who missed formation Monday and was later discovered lifeless.

Put up officers stated navy police issued a lacking particular person alert Monday for Sgt. Sarah Roque, 23. Later that night time investigators discovered her physique in a dumpster on the submit, officers stated Thursday.

“This can be a tragedy, that is one thing that we by no means wish to occur,” stated Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, head of each the Maneuver Help Heart of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wooden. We by no means need for the household to need to endure or the unit to need to endure.”

The Military is investigating Roque’s loss of life as a murder.

Roque’s physique was present in a dumpster adjoining to the only troopers’ quarters on base, Beck stated.

Beck and different officers assured the general public in a information convention Thursday there is no such thing as a risk to the general public in reference to this incident.

An Military investigator who spoke on the press convention wouldn’t disclose whether or not the particular person of curiosity is a navy member or civilian. The official additionally wouldn’t share the reason for loss of life, pending the outcomes of an post-mortem.

In a earlier assertion, Beck remarked on the loss that the submit’s group felt with Roque’s loss of life.

“Sgt. Roque was a daughter, sister, good friend and soldier who selected to serve our nation bravely and honorably,” stated Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, head of each the Maneuver Help Heart of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wooden. “Her passing has precipitated an incredible void all through our staff, and whereas there are not any phrases to ease the ache, we proceed to offer care, sources and help to those that are affected throughout this tough time.”

Set up public affairs officers launched a press release with particulars of Roque’s background and deferred additional remark to Military Legal Investigation Division.

Military CID is dealing with the case now and, in accordance with coverage, declines to touch upon ongoing investigations.

Initially from Ligonier, Indiana, Roque enlisted in 2020 and graduated primary coaching at Fort Leonard Wooden, in keeping with the assertion.

She served as a bridge crew member and mine canine handler with fifth Engineer Battalion’s K9 Detachment.

Roque’s awards and decorations embody the Military Commendation Medal, Nationwide Protection Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Military Service Ribbon.