Who was Krysta Martinez, the soldier who had started #FindVanessa movement, did she really die in a car crash?
The recent developments in missing Fort Hood soldier Vanessa Guillen’s case have revealed that the 20-year-old US soldier was bludgeoned to death. She was stationed at the US Fort Hood Army post in Killeen, Texas and was last seen in the parking lot of Regimental Engineer Squadron Headquarters on April 22, before she went missing. While people were still distraught over Guillen’s tragic death, the latest reports regarding the death of another female soldier Krysta Martinez has disturbed them further. A few reports from July 2, are suggesting that Martinez, a retired US soldier died in a "car accident”.
Martinez was a veteran, who was last stationed at Fort Hood. She was the one to start #FindVanessa moment after Guillen went missing. Martinez had also said she was harassed at the base.Mid-June, Martinez spoke out forcefully against the alleged cases of sexual harassment and abuse at the largest US Army base, reports Austin American-Statesman. "Fort Hood is a terrible place," she had said. "Sexual harassment and sexual assault is a big thing at Fort Hood and there is never any justice. The family needs justice. They need answers," she had said speaking of Vanessa's disappearance.
However, after her sudden death which was allegedly caused by an accident many have taken to social media to express suspicion over the reports. One Twitter user shared, “Krysta Martinez passed away from a “car accident” •she was stationed at Fort Hood Army Base •one of the first persons to help Vanessas family •she filed a sexual harassment complaint. I just don’t truly believe it was an accident.”
Meanwhile, another Twitter user also shared a similar opinion about Martinez’s death saying, “This is not an accident, to coincidental and fishy. GOD bless her and Vanessa may they rest in peace.”
Some of the internet users have pointed out that both Martinez and Guillen died suspiciously after reporting sexual harassment. “All I'm saying is that the Army has a severe zero tolerance policy on sexual harassment; basically a career ender for perpetrators. People in general will do whatever to cover up their wrongdoings, unfortunately. Smh” read a tweet.
A few have come together to collect funds for Krysta’s funeral expenses on GoFundMe. It has already raised over $8000, with a goal of $50,000.
“Krysta served in the US Army and retired honorably. She was a true friend and would always go out of her way for others. She always strived to make a difference and started the #FindVanessa movement. Everyone is devastated by this tragic event and I ask of everyone to please send donations to the family. God bless everyone who donates", states the petition.