Authorities in Iowa County have identified the victim found dead near Amana Lily Lake as 20-year-old Melody Hoffman of Marion. The Iowa County Sheriff's Office confirmed the identification and charged 23-year-old McKinley Louisma of Hiawatha in connection to the case. The body was discovered at 220th Trail and 38th Avenue in Amana.

Based on the preliminary autopsy report by the Iowa State Medical Examiner, it was determined that the victim died by strangulation and had multiple stab wounds. Investigators used cellphone tracking data and witness accounts to trace Hoffman's movements before her death.

Louisma was allegedly with another individual when they bound Hoffman's wrists with duct tape at Morgan Creek Park in Linn County, placed her in the trunk of a car, and transported her to various locations before ultimately reaching the pond where the victim was found. Items belonging to the victim, including her phone case and a bloody Apple Watch band, were discovered in Louisma's vehicle along with a bungee cord, towing rope, gloves, and clothing matching what she was wearing.

Investigators revealed that Louisma and the victim were in an intimate relationship at the time of the incident. Louisma also reportedly had a relationship with another person. He faces charges of kidnapping and conspiracy to commit forcible felony. The identity of the individual allegedly involved in the crime with Louisma has not been disclosed.

Louisma was arraigned in court on Tuesday following the discovery of Hoffman's body. The case continues to be under investigation as officials work to gather more evidence.