Soldier charged with murder after sergeant found dead in dumpster at Missouri Army base

A soldier was accused murder After a sergeant’s body was found in a dumpster Missouri Army base last week.

US Army Sergeant Sarah RoqueA 23-year-old man from Ligonier, Indiana, was reported missing Monday, Oct. 21, after he failed to report for duty at Fort Leonard Wood that morning and his family and commanders were unable to reach him, according to authorities.

His body was found the next day in a base dumpster near where single soldiers were staying, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck said at a news conference last week.

Wooster Rancy, 21, a specialist soldier with the 5th Engineer Battalion, has been charged with murder and obstruction of justice, Fort Leonard Wood officials announced Thursday.

Originally from North Miami, Florida, Rancy was serving as a combat engineer with the 509th Clearance Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, after enlisting in the Army in 2022 and receiving his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood.

He is currently being held in pre-trial jail while awaiting a preliminary hearing.

It is unclear at this time how Roque died and what connection he may have to the suspect.

Army officials had previously announced on October 24 that a “person of interest” had been detained.

Roque was a bridge crew member who served as a mine dog handler with the Army’s K9 Detachment.

He enlisted four years ago when he began basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood and received several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Army Service Ribbon, according to Army officials.

“Sergeant Roque was a daughter, sister, friend and Soldier who chose to bravely and honorably serve our country,” Beck said at last week’s press conference.

“His passing has left a tremendous void on our team, and while there are no words that can ease the pain, we continue to provide care, resources and support to those affected during this difficult time.”

Fort Leonard Wood officials are expected to hold a news conference Friday.