Fargo Man Arrested for Girlfriend's Murder

Joshua Hite charged with murder, evidence tampering, and providing false information

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

A 21-year-old Fargo man named Joshua Hite has been arrested and charged with murder, evidence tampering, and providing false information in the death of his 24-year-old girlfriend, Isadora Wengel, who was reported missing on January 7th after last being seen on New Year's Eve. Investigators found blood matching Wengel's DNA on a plastic sheet in a dumpster outside Hite's apartment, along with a saw blade believed to be linked to the case. Surveillance footage shows Hite purchasing an electric saw at a Fargo home improvement store.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the issue of domestic violence and the need for greater awareness and resources to support victims. It also raises questions about the importance of thorough investigations and the role of forensic evidence in solving crimes.

The details

According to authorities, Hite has been charged with murder, evidence tampering, and providing false information in connection with Wengel's disappearance and death. Investigators found evidence linking Hite to the crime, including blood matching Wengel's DNA on a plastic sheet in a dumpster outside Hite's apartment and a saw blade believed to be connected to the case. Surveillance footage also shows Hite purchasing an electric saw at a local home improvement store.

  • Isadora Wengel was last seen on New Year's Eve.
  • Wengel was reported missing on January 7th.
  • Hite was arrested on Tuesday.

The players

Joshua Hite

A 21-year-old Fargo man who has been charged with murder, evidence tampering, and providing false information in the death of his girlfriend, Isadora Wengel.

Isadora Wengel

A 24-year-old woman from West Fargo who was reported missing on January 7th after last being seen on New Year's Eve.

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What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are asking residents in Fergus Falls, Battle Lake, Underwood, and Elizabeth to check their property for a missing black tote with a red lid that may be connected to the case.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring thorough investigations to bring perpetrators to justice and provide closure for victims' families.