Missing soldier found dead inside dumpster; person of interest in custody

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (KY3/Gray News) – A person of interest has been taken into custody in connection to the death of a soldier at an Army base in Missouri.

An investigation into the death of 23-year-old Sgt. Sarah Roque was launched Tuesday after her body was found inside a dumpster.

Roque was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood. She was reported missing on Monday after the Army said she did not report for duty.

The cause of death has not been released.

Authorities are investigating her death as a homicide and reported they have a person of interest in custody.

“We are continuing to look at every investigation lead,” US Army Special Agent John McCabe said. “At this point, efforts are made to make sure this individual does not threaten the base or the community.”

Roque, of Ligonier, Indiana, was a bridge crewmember and served as a mine dog handler with the K-9 Detachment, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Engineer Battalion. She was enlisted in 2020 and attended basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood.

“The Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood team is deeply saddened by this devastating loss, and we send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Sergeant Roque,” said Maj. Gene. Christopher Beck, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general.

Roque’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

“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.”

Fort Leonard Wood officials said there is no threat to the public, including those serving on the post.

“I will tell you point blank. “I have said this to our team and the command sergeant major, and I have reinforced this: Fort Leonard Wood is a safe place to live and work,” Beck said.

Further information about the investigation or the person of interest has not been released.

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