The US military is investigating the death of Sgt. Sarah Roque, whose body was found in a dumpster at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri earlier this week.

Roque was first reported missing Monday after she failed to show up for her unit’s morning training. According to Fort Leonard Wood, she was last seen on base and attempts by her chain of command and family to contact her were unsuccessful.

Following her disappearance, Fort Leonard Wood issued a “be on the lookout” report, asking for help from the public and law enforcement. On Monday evening, Roque’s body was discovered in a dumpster next to a single-soldier dwelling.

At a press conference on Thursday. Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck said a person of interest was taken into custody. He did not release further information about the person or whether they were a member of the military as an investigation is ongoing.

Beck added that the Army Criminal Investigation Division is investigating Roque’s death as a potential homicide. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are also assisting in the investigation.

Located in central Missouri, Fort Leonard Wood is a military installation that trains nearly 80,000 people each year. Roque, from Ligonier, Indiana, enlisted in 2020 and completed basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood.

She was a member of the bridge crew and served as a mine dog handler with the 5th Engineer Battalion’s K9 detachment, according to Fort Leonard Wood. His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and the Military Service Ribbon.

Beck said Roque was “described by her peers as tough and proud of everything she did and proud to serve our country, which she did with honor and distinction.” He added: “The community of Fort Leonard Wood is devastated by this tragic loss. »

The town of Ligonier, Roque, issued a proclamation of recognition in his honor Thursday, asking all local businesses and residents to fly their flags at half-staff until Roque’s burial.

Army officials say autopsy results are still pending as part of their investigation.

Copyright 2024 NPR