Misty Dawn Guzman-Castro, 43, was found dead from a gunshot wound inside a vehicle late the evening of July 19, 2025, on North Lake of the Woods Road in Columbia, Missouri. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office says an altercation likely occurred inside the car after a text about a flat tire led Misty and another person to meet. Police identified 26-year-old Isaiah Goens as the primary suspect, arrested him after finding the body, and charged him with second-degree murder and armed criminal action.

Family members remembered Misty as lively and resilient, known locally as the clown of the town for her colorful hats. They say she had overcome years of sex trafficking and drug addiction, graduated from drug court, was rebuilding relationships with her four children and was expecting a grandchild. Her sister has publicly argued the evidence shows intent and that harsher charges are warranted.

What can anyone who knew Misty or who was in that area on July 19 tell investigators?