Latest missing Fort Hood soldier had reported sexual abuse to Army

KILLEEN, Texas — An Army official indicated a soldier missing from Fort Hood in Texas had transferred units after reporting sexual abuse.

Sgt. Elder Fernandes was reported missing last Wednesday.

Killeen police say the 23-year-old hadn't been seen since last Monday when his staff sergeant dropped him off at home.

A Fort Hood public affairs officer said in a statement this weekend that there is an "open investigation of abusive sexual contact" involving Fernandes.

The statement notes Fernandes had been transferred to another unit to ensure that he was properly cared for and to prevent retaliation.

Fernandes is the third soldier from Fort Hood to go missing in the past year.