Justice for Katia: Two Indicted in Latina Soldier’s Brutal Killing
Nearly nine months after the brutal killing of Latina soldier Pfc. Katia Dueñas-Aguilar, authorities have charged two individuals in connection with her death. The Clarksville Police Department announced that Sofia Rodas, 35, and Dueñas-Aguilar’s husband, Reynaldo Salinas Cruz, 40, have been indicted in the case. Rodas faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence, while the police charged Cruz with tampering with evidence, according to NBC News.
A Latina Soldier’s Life Cut Short
Dueñas-Aguilar, 23, was found dead in her off-post residence in Clarksville, Tennessee, on May 18, 2024. The soldier, originally from Mesquite, Texas, had been stationed at Fort Campbell since 2019 as an information technology specialist in the 101st Airborne Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade. According to ABC News, authorities discovered her body with 68 stab wounds, primarily to the neck. The Montgomery County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled her death a homicide due to sharp-force injuries.
Who Are the Suspects in the Latina Soldier’s Killing?
Authorities identified Cruz as Dueñas-Aguilar’s husband, though the nature of their relationship leading up to her murder remains unclear. The other suspect, Rodas, was charged with murder and evidence tampering, but officials have yet to release details about her connection to the victim.
According to Task & Purpose, both Cruz and Rodas were already in federal custody on unrelated charges, reportedly tied to marriage fraud, when the Montgomery County Grand Jury indicted them. They were extradited to Clarksville on February 7, 2025, and are currently being held at the Montgomery County Jail. Cruz is expected to be arraigned on Monday, while Rodas will have a court date set in the coming weeks, per NBC News.
A Case That Shook the Military Community
Dueñas-Aguilar’s murder sparked national outrage, particularly among military families and advocacy groups fighting for justice for Latina soldiers. The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, which was later increased by the victim’s mother, bringing the total to $55,000, as previously reported.
“The successful progression of this case highlights the critical partnership between local law enforcement and military authorities in addressing severe crimes that impact service members and their families,” the Clarksville Police Department said in a statement.
What Happens Next?
As the case moves to prosecution, many are closely watching how justice unfolds for Dueñas-Aguilar. The investigation remains open, and officials have not ruled out additional charges.
“This case remains an open and active investigation,” police told the media, adding that the Army Criminal Investigation Division assisted in gathering evidence.
For a community still mourning the loss of another Latina soldier, the indictment of two individuals brings hope for accountability. However, many continue to demand greater protections for service members to prevent future tragedies
