A soldier from Fort Leonard Wood was found dead inside a dumpster after a thorough search. Following investigations, a 21-year-old stationed in the same area was apprehended. Now, the army is trying to determine the motive for the crime. On October 21, Sergeant Sarah Roque, who served in Fort Leonard Wood, was reportedly missing. Per CNN, immediately after the report, members of her unit ventured into an extensive search. They contacted the emergency services in the base and local authorities.
Soldier Charged in Death of Missing Sergeant in Fort Leonard Wood
That same day, around evening time, Roque’s lifeless body was spotted inside a dumpster on the base. Major Gen. Christopher Beck confirmed the sergeant’s death. But what was even more shocking and unexpected was who was involved. Just four days after recovering Roque’s body, the base claimed that a suspect had been detained. This is 21-year-old Spc. Wooster Rancy, who worked as a combat engineer. Like the deceased, Rancy was based in Fort Leonard Wood. Shockingly, they both belonged to the 5th Engineer Battalion.
The combat engineer is now facing murder charges and justice obstruction in violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. For now, she’s still in the base’s custody, in pretrial confinement. Soon, Rancy will attend a preliminary hearing. Expectedly, investigations are being handled in-house by the Department of Army Criminal Investigation Division. Sources say not much has been divulged as investigations are still ongoing. But so far, the relationship between the pair and the motive of the crime is yet to be ascertained.
This is a tough time for the base as Beck explained that Roque will be greatly missed and is being mourned. She was only 23 but she was duly honored for her services. Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags to be flown at half-staff in her honor. Additionally, the deceased will receive the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
Since 2020, Roque has been a part of the Fort Leonard Wood army family. She began by attending basic combat training. Apart from being an exemplary officer, she was a daughter, sister, and friend survived by a mother and three brothers. The fallen soldier will be buried on November 2, in Indiana.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
