Two people have been arrested in connection with the stabbing death of 23-year-old Army PFC Katia Dueñas-Aguilar of Mesquite, Texas. Dueñas-Aguilar, stationed at Fort Campbell, KY, was found dead in a home in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Police confirmed that her 40-year-old husband, Reynaldo Sanlinas Cruz, is among those arrested. An autopsy performed by the Montgomery County Medical Examiner's Office revealed that she was stabbed 68 times, with most of the wounds concentrated on her neck. Additional injuries were found on her head, chest, and shoulder.
The investigation led authorities to 35-year-old Sofia Rodas and 40-year-old Cruz. Rodas has been charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Cruz, Dueñas-Aguilar's husband, has been charged with tampering with evidence.
A graduate of North Mesquite High School, Aguilar joined the U.S. Army after completing her education. She leaves behind a 4-year-old son and was honored with several awards, including a Medal for Good Conduct and the National Defense Service Medal, during her time in service.
"LULAC continues to stand with the family of Katia Dueñas Aguilar. This news is bittersweet to them for while it provides some hope for justice, nothing will bring her back," said Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "We trust that the investigation will help shed light on the motive for Katia's killing. Also, what we learn from this case may help protect other service members from falling victims to foul play."
