Specialist Charged in Sergeant’s Death.

Chilling new details in murder of Missouri soldier found dead after  vanishing from base | Daily Mail Online

A soldier stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri has been charged in the death of a sergeant found in a dumpster at the base, according to Army officials. Specialist Wooster Rancy, a 21-year-old member of the 5th Engineer Battalion, is facing charges of murder and obstructing justice related to the death of 23-year-old Sergeant Sarah Roque.

Roque was found dead on October 20 near a housing area for single soldiers. Officials have stated that Rancy is currently in pretrial confinement as he awaits a preliminary hearing. While the nature of the relationship between Rancy and Roque, if any, remains unknown, Army representatives have not provided additional details on the matter.

The incident came to light after Roque was reported missing when she failed to attend her unit’s morning assembly on October 21. Later that same day, authorities located her body. Major General Christopher Beck, who leads the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood, expressed the community’s deep sorrow over the loss. He highlighted Roque’s reputation as a dedicated leader, describing her as someone who served with “honor and distinction.” Beck stated that such tragedies are a burden for both families and military units.

Roque, originally from Ligonier, Indiana, enlisted in 2020 and had received several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. She served as a bridge crewmember and mine dog handler within the K9 detachment of the 5th Engineer Battalion. Meanwhile, Rancy, who hails from Miami, joined the Army in 2022, completing his basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood. He currently serves as a combat engineer with the 509th Clearance Company within the same battalion.The charges against Rancy reflect the gravity of the situation, as murder and obstruction of justice are among the most severe allegations within the military justice system. His pretrial confinement is standard in cases involving potential flight risk or danger to others. A preliminary hearing will determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a full trial under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

Following Roque’s death, her unit and fellow soldiers have felt the emotional impact, with Fort Leonard Wood officials sharing condolences and offering support to those affected. Major General Beck acknowledged the challenges of coping with such a loss within the close-knit military environment, emphasizing that both the Fort Leonard Wood community and Roque’s family are enduring a difficult period.

Roque’s decorated service record underscores her commitment to the Army and her role as a bridge crewmember, mine dog handler, and leader within her unit. Her duties involved working with K9 units and supporting engineering missions, essential to the Army’s operational objectives. She was respected within her battalion and had built a reputation for professionalism and dedication in her field.

The 5th Engineer Battalion, to which both Rancy and Roque were assigned, is known for its specialized roles, including construction, demolition, and various engineering tasks that support other Army operations. Fort Leonard Wood, a key training base for Army engineers, military police, and chemical corps, also offers a range of specialized training that soldiers like Rancy and Roque undergo. This training prepares them for various military operations and combat engineering responsibilities in both domestic and deployed settings.

The Army has not disclosed further details on any findings that led to Rancy’s arrest or specifics about the investigation. The military’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) often handles such cases, ensuring that the investigation adheres to strict protocols while providing transparency and accountability. CID agents work with local law enforcement when necessary, although military jurisdictions generally take precedence in incidents that occur on bases.

Roque’s family and friends are grieving the sudden and tragic loss of a young woman whose career was defined by dedication and service. Her awards, such as the Army Commendation Medal and the Good Conduct Medal, highlight her achievements and the positive impact she made within her unit.

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