Her estranged husband, Raul Hernandez Perez has been charged with her murder. While her family, friends, and community await justice, we highlight the life of Army Private First Class Selena Elizabeth Roth.
Selena began accomplishing many things early in her 25 years. She earned her associate’s degree prior to graduating from high school, becoming a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society. During high school, she was very active in multiple sports including soccer, swimming, golf, and track.
A talented musician, Selena earned the title of Concertmistress of the Hernando County Youth Orchestra where she played the violin. Prior to joining the Army, she taught violin and viola to students at Chocachatti Elementary. Not only musically inclined, she also loved crochet, woodworking, drawing, and gardening.
She loved her daughter Nemea.
Selena faithfully served her country working as a Signals Intelligence Analyst. During her tenure in the Army, she was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. She left the Army with an Honorable Discharge.
As a Veteran, she fought for the rights of female active-duty members. She fought against domestic violence and military sexual trauma (MST) in the military.
Selena was a huge advocate for animals and adopted many herself. Photos on her Pet Services Facebook page illustrate her life with dogs and cats, some of which she fostered until they found permanent homes. She also donated food and supplies to shelters for homeless animals.
She is survived by her daughter Nemea, parents Thomas B. and Joanne Roth. Her siblings Jennifer Waddle, Kristen (Nicholas) Coniglio, Julie (Blaise) Ingoglia, Erin Roth, Aubrey (Steven) Rangel, Stephanie Roth, Michael Roth, Joseph (Robin) Roth, and 10 nieces and nephews.
Her estranged husband, Raul Hernandez Perez (Army Specialist assigned to 500th Military Intelligence Brigade) has been arrested in connection with Selena’s death. According to the Hawaii State Judiciary, Perez filed for divorce on October 8, 2020. Neither party was represented by an attorney. After family members were unable to contact her, Selena Roth was found deceased by local law enforcement during a welfare check at her home on the US Army Installation Schofield Barracks in Hawaii.
