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Fort Hood soldier missing since Aug 17 found dead in suspected suicide
The missing Fort Hood soldier was found dead in a suspected suicide in Temple.
TEMPLE, Texas - The attorney for the missing Fort Hood soldier's family says Sgt. Elder Fernandes was found dead in a suspected suicide near railroad tracks in Temple. She also told FOX 7 Austin's Amanda Ruiz that she’s calling for a congressional investigation on his death and Vanessa Guillen’s death.
The caller told police that a man was seen near the tracks and when officers arrived they found a body which they say appeared to have been there for some time. Fernandes' backpack was with him and police found his driver's license inside, according to the family's attorney.
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Fort Hood soldier missing since Aug 17 found dead in suspected suicide
Fort Hood officials held a press conference concerning missing soldier Sgt. Elder Fernandes who was found in Temple dead in a suspected suicide.
Police say there is no indication of foul play and that an autopsy has been ordered.
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Before his disappearance, Fernandes had reported that he had been a victim of abusive sexual contact. The 1st Cavalry Division confirmed to FOX 7 Austin that Fernandes was transferred from a recently deployed unit to another unit with the brigade "to ensure he received the proper care and ensure there were no opportunities for reprisals," says the division in a statement.
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Mother of missing Fort Hood soldier pleads for the public’s help to find him
Ailina Fernandes says she has not spoken with her son in over a week. The missing Fort Hood soldier was last seen Monday afternoon.
“He will never just disappear and not call me and tell me mom I'm okay, don't worry, he won't do that for no reason. Something's going on with him. We just have to find him,” she said.
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If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or text to 741-741
CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.