FORT HOOD, TX — Fort Hood officials say missing soldier Pfc. Edward Casteel was last seen departing the base on his own accord and they do not suspect foul play at this time.
Missing posters for the soldier circulated online today saying Casteel had not been heard from since October 7th.
Pfc. Casteel, 29, was seen departing Fort Hood on his own accord, just after midnight, on October 7th and did not report for duty later that morning as expected, according to a Fort Hood spokesman.
His last known location is northern Arkansas.
"When he did not report for duty, the unit immediately began a search of the unit area, including his barracks room and unit parking lots, and has been in constant contact with his family members and friends in an attempt to locate him," officials said. "We are also working with law enforcement to maximize the resources available to find him."
Fort Hood says their priority is the safety and well-being of Pfc. Edward Casteel and they do not suspect foul play at this time.
Casteel is assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment as an Infantryman.
Fort Hood is asking anyone with knowledge of Pfc. Casteel’s whereabouts to contact the Fort Hood CID Office at 254-287-2722, the Fort Hood MP desk at 254-287-4001 or your local police department.
Persons can also anonymously submit information at https://www.bellcountycrimestoppers.com or https://www.cid.army.mil/report-a-crime.html. People wishing to remain anonymous will be honored to the degree allowable under the law and the information will be held in the strictest confidence possible.
"There are over 18,000 Soldiers in the First Team and everyone is important to us," the spokesman said. "We sincerely care about the welfare of our teammate and thank you for your assistance and concern."
