Over 100 Volunteers Search for Missing Fargo Woman

Isadora Wengel's boyfriend charged with her murder as community rallies to find her remains.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A search for the missing 24-year-old Isadora Wengel has drawn over 100 volunteers in Fargo, North Dakota. Wengel disappeared in January, and her boyfriend has been charged with her murder. Investigators believe her remains may be in a 27-gallon plastic tote bin that her boyfriend allegedly disposed of during a heavy snowfall.

Why it matters

The disappearance and suspected murder of Isadora Wengel has shaken the Fargo community, leading to a large-scale public search effort to try and locate her remains and bring closure to her family. The case has also raised concerns about domestic violence and the need for stronger protections for victims.

The details

Police have been searching for Isadora Wengel since her disappearance in January. Her boyfriend has been charged with her murder, and investigators believe he may have disposed of her body in a 27-gallon plastic tote bin during a heavy snowfall. On Sunday, over 100 volunteers joined the search effort organized by the public and Wengel's parents.

  • Isadora Wengel disappeared in January 2026.
  • Her boyfriend was charged with her murder shortly after her disappearance.
  • The community search effort took place on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Isadora Wengel

A 24-year-old woman who went missing in January 2026 and is presumed to have been murdered by her boyfriend.

Isadora Wengel's boyfriend

The man charged with Isadora Wengel's murder, who is suspected of disposing of her body in a plastic tote bin.

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What they’re saying

“We must not give up hope of finding Isadora and bringing her home. The community's support means everything to us during this difficult time.”

— Isadora Wengel's parents (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

The search for Isadora Wengel's remains is ongoing, and her boyfriend's trial is expected to begin in the coming months.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and resources to address domestic violence, as well as the power of a community coming together to support a grieving family in their search for answers and closure.