Lawyers Seek Delay in Preliminary Hearing for Man Charged in Isadora Wengel Death

Defense cites need for more time to review evidence and await mental health evaluations.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 3:00pm

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Defense attorneys for Joshua Alexander Hite, the man charged in connection with the death of Isadora Wengel, have filed a motion to postpone his upcoming preliminary hearing. The hearing, currently scheduled for March 31, 2026, is being requested to be pushed back two terms, or approximately 10 weeks. The defense cites the need for more time to review a large volume of discovery materials and to have meaningful discussions with Hite about how to proceed, as well as the fact that Hite is currently undergoing mental health evaluations at the North Dakota State Hospital.

Why it matters

This case has garnered significant attention in the Fargo community, as Wengel's body has not been recovered and the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear. The outcome of Hite's mental health evaluations could have a major impact on how the case proceeds, making the delay in the preliminary hearing an important development.

The details

Hite is charged with murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement in connection with Wengel's death. Earlier this month, a judge ordered Hite to undergo both a competency examination and a criminal responsibility examination at the state hospital. The competency exam will determine whether Hite is mentally fit to stand trial, while the criminal responsibility exam will assess whether he lacked the capacity to understand the harmful nature of his alleged actions at the time of the crime.

  • The preliminary hearing is currently scheduled for March 31, 2026.
  • The defense is asking to postpone the hearing by two terms, or approximately 10 weeks.
  • Hite also has a Felony Dispositional Conference set for April 30, 2026.

The players

Joshua Alexander Hite

The man charged with murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement in connection with the death of Isadora Wengel.

Isadora Wengel

A 25-year-old woman who was last seen at a Fargo Walmart on January 3, 2026, and whose body has not been recovered.

Judge Steven McCullough

The judge who ordered Hite to undergo mental health evaluations at the North Dakota State Hospital.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.