Lang
8/3/26
The suspect in a Columbus Junction murder case is getting a new lawyer.
A request for removal of counsel was granted for 55-year-old Salvador Castaneda of Columbus Junction last week.
The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office says Castaneda was seen dragging the body of Noe Ibarra-Tijerina down Collins Road and R Avenue southeast of Columbus Junction around 4:30 on the afternoon of June 25th, 2025. The van Castaneda was driving was found in a ditch with a black cord hanging from it. Ibarra-Tijerina’s body was found in the opposite ditch with what appeared to be the other end of the cord tied around his waist. The body had injuries consistent with being dragged down a gravel road.
Castaneda was found on Collins Road. He reportedly had the keys to the van on his person and blood stains on his clothing. He was arrested and charged with Abuse of a Corpse, a Class C Felony punishable by a maximum of ten years in prison.
A cellphone and a handgun were found inside the vehicle, and an autopsy showed Ibarra-Tijerina died from a gunshot wound to the head. Castaneda was then additionally charged with 1st Degree Murder.
Police say witnesses provided additional information that Ibarra-Tijernia and Castaneda were arguing over money prior to the reported vehicle crash.
If convicted on the murder charge, Castaneda would be sentenced to life in prison.