The Disappearance of Sonya Rouse

Name: Sonya Marie Rouse
Age: 50 years old
Last Seen: March 5, 2016
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Status: Still missing

Case Information

50 year old Sonya Rouse was last seen in Chicago, Illinois on March 5, 2016. She was last seen near East 75th Street and South Chaplain Avenue in the Chatham neighborhood.

Background

Sonya graduated from Kenwood Academy, then attended Illinois State University where she studied communications and journalism.

Rouse had a daughter after college, who was in her mother’s custody at the time of her disappearance. Sonya suffered from postpartum depression, which led to substance abuse issues. She was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

At the time of her disappearance, she was living with a boyfriend in Greater Grand Crossing.

Disappearance

Around 11:00 pm on March 5, 2016, Sonya Rouse was last seen in the 7500 block of South Champlain Avenue in the Chatham neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. She hasn’t been heard from since.

Sonya was in an abusive relationship with her live in boyfriend at the time. Loved ones believe he could be involved in her disappearance.

She had an arrangement with her mother where they would stay in contact every few days by text or calling. It’s uncharacteristic of her to leave without warning and be out of contact with loved ones.

Investigation

Sonya’s boyfriend was later imprisoned on another case. While in custody, a corrections officer arranged an interview between him and detectives, however the Chicago Police Department declined.

In December 2018, the boyfriend died from a suspected fentanyl overdose after being released from prison. There’s no indication in police records that he was ever interviewed in relation to Sonya’s case.

Appearance

Black female with brown hair and brown eyes. Sonya stands 5’8-5’10 tall and weighs 170-175 pounds. Her hair was colored brownish/blonde at the time of her disappearance, and she wore it short.

Sonya may be carrying a purse.

Investigating Agency

If you have any information regarding the disappearance of Sonya Rouse please contact the Chicago Police Department -Area Two at (312) 747-5789.

Tips can also be submitted online.

Agency case number HZ 195736

Resources & Further Information

Sonya Marie Rouse – NamUs
Sonya Marie Rouse – The Charley Project
Woman Reported Missing More Than a Year – Chicago Tribune 
Missing Woman Last Seen in Chatham – Chicago Sun Times