Army Investigates Death of Soldier Sarah Roque

A 23-year-old Army sergeant’s mysterious disappearance ends in tragedy as investigators treat her death as a homicide.

At a Glance

Sgt. Sarah Roque, a 23-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, was found dead after being reported missing.
The Army Criminal Investigation Division is treating Roque’s death as a homicide.
Roque served as a mine dog handler and received several military honors.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is forming a coalition to assist with the investigation.
Roque’s death raises concerns about the safety of Latina women in the Army.

Soldier’s Disappearance and Death

Sgt. Sarah Roque, a 23-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, was reported missing on a Monday. The young servicewoman’s disappearance quickly turned into a tragic event when she was found dead, prompting authorities to launch a homicide investigation. Roque, who enlisted in the Army in 2020 from Indiana, served as a mine dog handler with the K9 Detachment, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Engineer Battalion.

The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is now leading the inquiry into Roque’s death. Details surrounding the circumstances of her disappearance and the cause of her death remain undisclosed, leaving many questions unanswered. However, the Army is reportedly looking into a person of interest in the case. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome.

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 Service and Honors

During her service, Sgt. Roque distinguished herself and earned several military honors. Her achievements include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. These accolades speak to her dedication and exemplary performance in her role as a soldier.

“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 said.

Beck expressed condolences and highlighted Roque’s service, emphasizing the impact of her loss on the military community. The Army is providing support and resources to those affected by this tragic event.

Concerns for 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 previous cases involving Hispanic women in the Army, raising concerns about the safety of Latina soldiers. LULAC has been involved in similar cases, including those of Pfc. Katia Dueñas Aguilar and Spc. Vanessa Guillén.

The case of Spc. Vanessa Guillén, whose 2020 murder at Fort Hood led to national outrage, resulted in policy changes within the Army. However, LULAC continues to express concerns about the safety of Latina women in the military and has previously urged caution regarding enlistment. The organization’s involvement in Roque’s case underscores the ongoing nature of these concerns.

Investigation Ongoing

As the Army Criminal Investigation Division treats Sgt. Roque’s death as a homicide, many details remain unclear. The cause of her death has not been released, and investigators are working to uncover the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and subsequent death. The military community and Roque’s family await answers as the investigation continues.

The tragic loss of Sgt. Sarah Roque serves as a somber reminder of the risks faced by service members, even on home soil.