Missing Fort Hood soldier complained of ‘abusive sexual contact’ before disappearance

A 23-year-old Fort Hood soldier who was last seen on Aug. 17 claimed he had been sexually abused in a mysterious disappearance echoing that of 20-year-old Pfc. Vanessa Guillén.

Sgt. Elder Fernandes was last seen Monday when his staff sergeant dropped him off at home in Killeen, his family told police.

Fort Hood officials said Saturday that they do not suspect foul play and believe he “left on his own accord.”

“We remain fully committed to finding him and ensuring his well being,” the Texas Army base said in a statement.

But officials also confirmed that Fernandes had reported “abusive sexual contact” before he disappeared and that an open investigation was ongoing.

“The chain of command takes all allegations of sexual harassment and assault seriously,” Fort Hood LTC Chris Brautigam told KTRK.

Fernandes had been working with a sexual assault response coordinator to make sure was aware of his “reporting, care and victim advocacy options,” Brautigam said.

“The unit also facilitated his transfer from a unit who has recently deployed to a different unit within the brigade to ensure he received the proper care and ensure there were no opportunities for reprisals,” he told KTRK.

In April, another soldier, Guillén, disappeared from Fort Hood after telling her family that she was being sexually harassed by a sergeant on base. Her dismembered remains were found buried along the Leon River in late June.

Her alleged killer, 20-year-old soldier Aaron David Robinson, died by suicide after police made contact with him in July.

Fernandes is a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division Sustainment Brigade. He is listed at 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighs about 133 pounds and was last seen wearing black Army shorts and T-shirt with red athletic shoes, according to police.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Killeen Police Department at 254-526-TIPS (8477), www.bellcountycrimestoppers.com, the Fort Hood CID Office at 254-287-2722, the Fort Hood MP desk at 254-287-4001 or a local police department.