The young Fort Hood soldier who went missing on Monday had reported sexual harassment prior to his mysterious disappearance from the military installation that has seen 11 deaths this year alone.
According to the Killeen Police Department, 23-year-old Sgt. Elder Fernandes was reported missing on Wednesday, shortly after he claimed he had been sexually abused at the base.
The last time the young soldier was seen was on Monday when he was dropped off at his home by his staff sergeant.
Confirming the soldier’s report of harassment at the base was public affairs officer who stated that “the unit sexual assault response coordinator has been working closely with Sgt. Fernandes, ensuring he was aware of all his reporting, care, and victim advocacy options.”
According to Lt. Col. Chris Brautigam, Fernandes has also been moved to another unit following his report in order “to ensure he received the proper care and ensure there were no opportunities for reprisals.”
The 23-year-old’s disappearance deepens the mystery surrounding the strange deaths of eleven Fort Hood soldiers who died during the year. Out of these 11 deaths, five are believed to be a result of foul play.
Just last week, a 22-year-old Fort Hood soldier has passed away after being rammed by a car while directing traffic at the scene of an accident close to the military base.
Spc. Cole Jakob Aton was directing traffic in Killeen, just a few miles from the military installation where he was stationed, when a driver rammed into him with their car.
As of this writing, no charges have been filed against the driver who allegedly didn’t see the soldier as they crossed an Interstate 14 overpass. The case is still being investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
According to the reports, it isn’t clear whether Aton, who served as a missile operator with the 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, was involved in the accident after which he helped direct the traffic or not.
Cole Jakob Aton – Facebook
“Specialist Aton was a professional, committed to the mission.point 84 | His selfless service and care for others are in keeping with the highest traditions of the ‘Lightning Brigade’ and our Army.point 192 | The entire team is heartbroken,” Brigade Commander Col.point 242 |
Ethan Hall, expressed in a statement after the young soldier’s death.point 61 | 1
As it later came to light, Aton took to social media to share various calls for action and petitions to have the mysterious deaths at the base investigated prior to his death.
Replaced!