An investigation has begun into the proven attack, he said.
“We can confirm that there is an open investigation into the abuse of sexual contact with Sgt. Fernandes, ”said Brautigam.
Fernandes, a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear specialist, was last seen Monday at a residence in Killeen, Texas, where Fort Hood is located. The next day, he did not report to plan as planned, the army said.
Prior to his disappearance, the unit’s sexual assault coordinator worked closely with Sgt. Fernandes, and made sure he was aware of all his reporting, care and victimization options, ”said Brautigam.
Also on Saturday, Fort Hood published a statement saying foul play is not suspected in Fernades’ disappearance, and it is not believed to be linked to other high-profile cases of missing staff from the base. Two soldiers from the base were found dead this summer.
“There is no connection between the disappearance of Sgt. Fernandes and all other ongoing cases at Fort Hood, “the statement said.
Another Fort Hood officer said the army’s priority is finding Fernandes, who was assigned to the First Cavalry Division Sustained Brigade.
“Our priority remains Sgt. Fernandes is coming back with the people who care for him, “Justin Redfern, commander of the 553rd Combat Sustained Support Battalion, said in the statement.” We care about his well-being and want him to continue the care he received. before he misses. Our unit and army have the resources to help him. “
Brautigam said the army continues to search for Fernandes with Killeen police, including inspecting unit areas, barracks, and motor swimming pools.
“We have visited multiple areas throughout Central Texas and are grateful for the continued support and assistance of the community as we work to bring our teammates home,” he said in the statement.
Leaders in the Ferandes unit had “initiated a dialogue with his family for his current absence and will stay in touch with them in our quest to find him,” the First Calvary Division said in a statement.
Members of the Fernandes family could not be reached for comment Saturday night.
On Friday, his aunt said the family is concerned about his well-being.
“The whole family is trying to figure out where he is,” Isabel Fernandes, his aunt, told the Globe on Friday night. “We all love him, we miss him, and we need him at home with us.”
Fernandes lived in Cape Verde until he was about 8 or 9 years old. His family immigrated to the United States and settled in Brockton, where he lived until he joined the Army, his aunt said.
Fernandes is 5-foot-5 and weighs 133 pounds, according to the Army, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black army-training T-shirt and shorts, as well as black, orange and yellow sneakers.
The Army is asking anyone with information to contact the Fort Hood Criminal Investigation Command at 254-287-2722, the Fort Hood Military Police at 254-287-4001, or their local police department. People can also submit information anonymously at www.cid.army.mil/report-a-crime.html.
Global correspondent Jeremy C. Fox contributed to this report. Associated Press material was also used.
Breanne Kovatch can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @breannekovatch.
