FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — The U.S. Army is investigating the death of Sgt. Sarah Roque, a 23-year-old soldier who went missing from Fort Leonard Wood earlier this week, according to military officials.
Sgt. Roque, a member of the 5th Engineer Battalion, was reported missing Monday after failing to attend roll call, prompting base officials to issue a public advisory and request assistance in locating her. The Army base’s Facebook post, published around 6 p.m. Monday, stated that efforts to reach Roque by her family and chain of command were unsuccessful.
In a follow-up statement released at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Fort Leonard Wood officials announced that Roque had been found deceased. The statement did not specify where her body was discovered or disclose the cause or manner of her death. Army officials confirmed that the Criminal Investigation Division is handling the ongoing investigation.
Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, commanding general of the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood, expressed condolences on behalf of the military community. “Sergeant Roque was a daughter, sister, friend and Soldier who chose to serve our country bravely and honorably,” Beck said. “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.”
Originally from Ligonier, Indiana, Roque enlisted in 2020 and had served as a mine dog handler with the K-9 Detachment. During her service, she earned several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army Service Ribbon.
Authorities have not released further details on the investigation, pending notification of Roque’s family and additional inquiries into the circumstances of her death.