Specialist Accused in Mysterious Death at Fort Leonard Wood

A tragic incident at Fort Leonard Wood has unfolded with the arrest of Specialist Wooster Rancy for the alleged murder of Sgt. Sarah Roque.

At a Glance

Specialist Wooster Rancy faces murder charges following the death of Sgt. Sarah Roque.
Sgt. Roque’s body was found in a dumpster on the evening she was reported missing.
Rancy also charged with obstruction of justice; pretrial confinement underway.
Sgt. Roque, a mine detection handler, was an esteemed member of the U.S. Army.

Incident Details

A 21-year-old soldier, Specialist Wooster Rancy, has been charged with the murder of 23-year-old Sgt. Sarah Roque at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Sgt. Roque, a mine detection dog handler, was found deceased in a dumpster near her living quarters on October 21, the same day she was reported missing. Her role in the military and respected skills made her a significant asset to her unit.

Born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, Roque joined the Army in 2020, later re-enlisting as a mine detection dog handler. Her sudden death has caused a tremendous void among those who knew her. Specialist Rancy, originally from Miami, Florida, began his military career at Fort Leonard Wood in 2022 and now remains in pretrial confinement.

Fort Leonard Wood Spc. Wooster Rancy has been charged with the murder of Sgt. Sarah Roque, from Ligonier, Indiana. Roque, a dog handler with the 5th Engineer Battalion, was found dead in a trash bin on Tuesday. https://t.co/RyCX0S0xCw

— WISH-TV News (@WISHNews8) October 31, 2024

Legal Proceedings Underway

Rancy faces serious charges under Articles 118 and 131b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including murder and obstruction of justice. The military justice system’s process involves his current pretrial confinement as he awaits a preliminary court martial hearing. The rigorous investigation conducted by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division seeks to uncover further details of this tragic case.

“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 Sgt. Roque,” Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck said.

Roque’s body was transported to Indianapolis for burial in Ligonier, Noble County, and she is survived by her parents, three brothers, and her grandmother. The circumstances surrounding her loss raise questions about safety within military environments and stress the importance of accountability in military procedures.

The Army has charged a soldier with the murder of Sgt. Sarah Roque, who was found dead at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri last week. https://t.co/FOAAxjzjs8

— Task & Purpose (@TaskandPurpose) November 1, 2024

Community Reaction and Military Response

The Army community and Roque’s family remain in grief, amplified by the public statements and condolences offered by military leaders. Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck expressed the collective sentiment of the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, acknowledging the significant void left by Roque’s passing. Many remember her bravery and commend her service, underscored by the military awards she received, including the Army Commendation Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

“A 21-year-old U.S. Army soldier based at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri has been charged with murdering a female sergeant in the same military unit who was found dead in a dumpster last week, Army officials said on Thursday.” Army officials.

Community reactions highlight the need for a robust support system for those serving, enforcing policies that ensure their safety and well-being. As investigations progress, the goal remains clear: to deliver justice for Sgt. Roque and prevent future tragedies within military ranks.