Body washed ashore on Outer Banks is missing soldier. Officials say he was killed
A Fort Bragg soldier missing since May 22, and a mysterious body discovered on North Carolina’s Outer Banks more than a week later are one in the same, military officials said Monday.
The death of Spc. Enrique Roman-Martinez, 21, is being investigated as a homicide, authorities said.
Roman-Martinez was identified by his dental records, according to the 82nd Airborne Division, in which Roman-Martinez served as a human resource specialist.
“We are deeply saddened by Spc. Roman-Martinez’s untimely passing,” said Lt. Col. Scotty Autin, commander, 37th Brigade Engineer Battalion. “He was well-liked by those who served alongside him. Spc. Roman-Martinez had a great attitude and the tragedy of his loss is felt by all of us. Our sympathies are with his family, friends, and fellow paratroopers — especially his mother and sister who flew from California to be here.”
Roman-Martinez was last seen May 22, camping with friends at Cape Lookout National Seashore. His friends reported him missing the next day, McClatchy News reported.
A search by ground and air ensued for days, and on the weekend of May 30-31 a body was found washed ashore on Shackleford Banks Island. National Park Service officials treated that body as a separate investigation and the remains were turned over to the medical examiner’s office for identification, according to McClatchy News.
The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the young soldier’s death as a homicide, and is offering a $15,000 reward to any individuals with information leading to the arrest of those “responsible for the death of Spc. Roman-Martinez,” the release said.
No cause of death has been given.
Information can be shared anonymously with the CID by dialing 910-396-87777, or can be submitted through https://www.p3tips.com/
