Fargo Man Charged with Girlfriend's Murder, $5M Bond Set

Joshua Hite accused of killing and dismembering Isadora Wengel, remains possibly in Otter Tail County

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Cass County District Court judge has set a $5 million cash-only bond for a 21-year-old Fargo man charged with the murder of his 25-year-old girlfriend, Isadora Wengel. Joshua Hite is accused of killing and dismembering Wengel, with investigators believing her remains may be in a black tote that was possibly disposed of in Otter Tail County, Minnesota.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic nature of domestic violence and the need for stronger measures to protect victims. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether high-risk defendants should be released on bond, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in investigating complex homicide cases without a body.

The details

According to the charges, DNA evidence found on a saw blade and other items indicates that Wengel's body was dismembered. Investigators believe Hite may have disposed of her remains in a black tote in Otter Tail County, Minnesota. Wengel was reported missing on January 7, and Hite was arrested outside his south Fargo apartment on Tuesday.

  • On January 7, Isadora Wengel was reported missing.
  • On February 13, a judge set a $5 million cash-only bond for Joshua Hite.

The players

Joshua Hite

A 21-year-old Fargo man charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Isadora Wengel.

Isadora Wengel

A 25-year-old woman who was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend, Joshua Hite.

Judge Connie Cleveland

The Cass County District Court judge who set the $5 million cash-only bond for Joshua Hite.

Cass County State's Attorney

The prosecutor's office that requested the $5 million bond for Hite.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Joshua Hite out on bail.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring the justice system has the tools to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable, even in complex homicide cases where a body may not be recovered.