The U.S. Army has launched an investigation into the death of a 23-year-old soldier who vanished from Fort Leonard Wood base in Missouri and was later found dead. Sgt. Sarah Roque of the 5th Engineer Battalion was reported missing after she failed to report for roll call on Monday morning. Attempts by her family and superiors to contact her were unsuccessful. A public appeal was made for assistance in locating her, accompanied by a poster featuring her photographs.
The base confirmed Roque’s death on Tuesday afternoon, although the location where she was found and the cause and circumstances of her death were not disclosed. The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division is currently probing the incident.
The loss of Sgt. Roque has deeply affected the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood team. Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, the commanding general, expressed his condolences in a statement, describing Roque as a daughter, sister, friend, and soldier who served her country with bravery and honor. He acknowledged the profound impact of her passing on the team and assured that support and resources were being provided to those affected during this challenging time.
Roque, a native of Ligonier, Indiana, had a distinguished military career. She received several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. She joined the Army in 2020 and completed her basic training at Fort Leonard Wood. Roque served as a mine dog handler with the K-9 Detachment.
Fort Leonard Wood base is situated in the Missouri Ozarks. U.S. Rep. Mark Alford, who represents the district encompassing the base, expressed his condolences and solidarity with those affected by the tragedy.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Roque’s death to contact law enforcement officials at 573-596-6141. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to CID Crime Tips at https://www.cid.army.mil/Submit-a-Tip/.