FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — A missing U.S. Army soldier from northeast Indiana has been found dead in Missouri. The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division is now investigating.
Sergeant Sarah Roque, 23, of Ligonier, Indiana, was reported missing on Monday morning after she did not show up for formation at Fort Leonard Wood in southern Missouri. Officials from Fort Leonard Wood confirmed Tuesday that Roque had been found dead.
The 23-year-old enlisted in the Army in 2020 and served as a bridge crewmember and mine dog handler for the 5th Engineer Battalion at Fort Leonard Wood. Roque had previously been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
Roque was a daughter, sister, friend and Soldier, Army officials said in a Facebook post.
“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,” Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, said. “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.”
The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is looking into the circumstances surrounding Sergeant Roque’s death. Their investigation is ongoing and no other information was immediately provided.
U.S. Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) released the following statement Tuesday on the passing of Sergeant Sarah Roque.
“We send our deep condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Sergeant Sarah Roque and to the entire Fort Leonard Wood community. Sergeant Roque was a dedicated soldier whose patriotic service earned her multiple awards and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. We mourn with all those affected by this tragedy, and we stand alongside them during this horrible time,” said Congressman Alford.
