Spring Carpenter Death Investigation: Josue Chirino Charged After Juan Antonio Salinas Leija Found Killed on Goldensong Court.

Spring Carpenter Death Investigation: Josue Chirino Charged After Juan Antonio Salinas Leija Found Killed on Goldensong Court.

SPRING, Texas — Court documents are revealing disturbing new details in the death of a carpenter found inside a Spring-area home, as authorities confirm that Josue Chirino has been charged with murder in connection with the killing of Juan Antonio Salinas Leija, who investigators say was fatally struck with a sledgehammer.

According to officials, the alleged attack occurred on or about April 10, 2026, at a residence under renovation on Goldensong Court in the Northgate Crossing community. Investigators say Salinas Leija, who worked as a contract carpenter, had been performing construction duties at the home when the fatal incident took place.

Authorities reported that Salinas Leija’s family had not heard from him since Friday afternoon, raising concern when he failed to return home or make contact. After realizing that the Goldensong Court property was the last known location where he had been working, relatives went to check on him Sunday morning. It was there that they made the devastating discovery of his body inside the home.

Police were called to the scene at approximately 11:30 a.m. after the victim’s sister dialed 911. Deputies responded quickly and secured the residence as investigators began processing the scene and gathering evidence related to the homicide.

Court documents indicate that investigators believe a sledgehammer was used during the fatal assault, leading to the murder charge now filed against Chirino. Authorities have not yet released information regarding a possible motive or the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victim beyond the worksite connection.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The community now mourns the tragic loss of Juan Antonio Salinas Leija, a hardworking carpenter whose life was cut short under violent and heartbreaking circumstances.