Prosecutors charge Joshua Hite with murder in the 2026 disappearance of Isadora Wengel, citing DNA and digital evidence, though her body remains unfound.

In 2026, prosecutors in West Fargo are pursuing murder charges against Joshua Hite in the disappearance of 25-year-old Isadora Wengel, whose body has not been found. Authorities believe Hite may have dismembered and disposed of her remains, citing DNA evidence on a Sawzall blade and a latex glove, along with purchases of disposal tools and online searches for aliases. Drawing on the 1993 Jeanna North case, former prosecutors John Goff and Birch Burdick say a conviction is possible without a body if prosecutors can prove death and the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Over 70 public tips have been received, and police are seeking information about a black 27-gallon tote with a red lid. Hite’s next court date is March 11.