Fort Hood: Foul play not suspected concerning missing Brockton native stationed at Fort Hood

UPDATE: Missing soldier and Brockton native found dead Tuesday

The search continues for a missing Brockton native who was stationed at Fort Hood Texas.

According to the United States Army at Fort Hood, they continue to actively search for and are seeking the public’s help in locating Army Sgt. Elder Fernandes.

Fort Hood stated that they continue to stay in contact with his family, friends, and law enforcement.

“Our primary concern is to ensure his safety and wellbeing.”

It is an ongoing investigation led by the Killeen Police Department and in close coordination with the US Army CID and the unit.

“We do no suspect foul play in his disappearance at this time.”

Fernandes has not been heard from by his family since Monday, August 17, 2020.

Family members reported to officers on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 that he was last seen by his Staff Sergeant on Monday afternoon when he dropped him off at his residence located in the 2700 block of Woodlands Drive in Killeen.

Elder Fernandes is approximately 5’4” tall and weighs approximately 133 pounds. He was last seen wearing black army PT shorts and t-shirt with red athletic shoes.

Elder’s mother Ailiana told NBC News that Elder had been in the hospital for four or five days prior to his disappearance, however, it is unclear why he was there.

Lt. Col. Chris Brautigam, a 1st Cavalry Division public affairs officer, told CNN in a statement that there is an “open investigation of abusive sexual contact” where Sgt. Elder Fernandes was the victim in the investigation.

“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,” 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.”

Fort Hood has garnered attention recently after at least 8 soldiers stationed there have died or been found dead since March, including 20-year-old Spc. Vanessa Guillén.

Contact the Fort Hood Military Police at 254-288-1170 or US Army CID at 254-287-2722, if you have any information on Fernandes whereabouts.