MURDER CHARGE FILED AGAINST SOLDIER IN DEATH OF FORT LEONARD WOOD SERGEANT
Charges Against Specialist Wooster Rancy
A soldier stationed in Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, Specialist Wooster Rancy, has been charged with murder in the death of 23-year-old Sergeant Sarah Roque, the Army announced on Thursday.
Background on the Incident
Sergeant Roque was found dead inside a dumpster near single soldier housing on October 20. She was reported missing after failing to show up for her unit’s morning formation on October 21. Her body was discovered hours later.
Charges and Investigation
Specialist Rancy, 21, with the 5th Engineer Battalion, is also charged with obstructing justice. He is being held in pretrial confinement awaiting a preliminary hearing.
Relationship Between Rancy and Roque
The relationship between Rancy and Roque, if any, is not clear. An official with the Army declined to comment, and attempts to reach Rancy’s family were unsuccessful.
Information on the Victim
Sergeant Roque was a decorated soldier who enlisted in 2020. She was assigned to the 5th Engineer Battalion as a bridge crewmember and mine dog handler with the K9 detachment. She received several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
Information on the Suspect
Specialist Rancy joined the Army in 2022 and attended basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood. He serves as a combat engineer with the 509th Clearance Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, according to the Army.
Reaction from Base Commander
Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, described the community at the base as "devastated" by the incident. He described Roque as a leader who served with "honor and distinction."
Conclusion
The murder charge against Specialist Rancy is a shocking development in an already tragic incident. The investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear what motivated Rancy to commit the crime. The Army has vowed to support Roque’s family and the unit during this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the charge against Specialist Rancy?
A: Murder and obstructing justice
Q: What is the relationship between Rancy and Roque?
A: The relationship between Rancy and Roque is not clear.
Q: How did Roque die?
A: She was found dead inside a dumpster near single soldier housing on October 20.
Q: What is the motive behind the murder?
A: The motive is currently unknown and is under investigation.
