By: Devin Fry
FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – Joshua Hite, the man charged in connection with the death of 25-year-old Isadora Wengel, told investigators in a letter where he disposed of her remains, but a search of the location came up empty, according to court documents.
Hite faces charges of murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement.
Hite Discloses Location of Remains
On Feb. 12, 2026, Hite disclosed in a letter the directions to where he said he left Wengel’s remains. The letter was printed and signed by Joshua Hite.
The directions led investigators to 33919 190th St. in Underwood, Minn., a property belonging to the family of one of Hite’s childhood friends.
Investigators responded to the location with assistance from the Ottertail County Sheriff’s Office. Wengel’s remains were not found there.
Investigators believe Hite transported part of Wengel’s remains to the Underwood property on or around Jan. 6–7, 2026.
As of Feb. 24, 2026, Wengel’s remains have not been located, according to court documents.
What Hite Told Investigators
According to the search warrants, Hite told investigators that most of Wengel’s remains were wrapped in plastic and placed in a black tote with a red lid. He said he used zip ties to secure the lid.
Hite told investigators the remainder of Wengel’s legs were placed in a garbage bag and disposed of in a dumpster at Beach Bums, a bar in Battle Lake, Minn. He said Wengel’s personal belongings and the Sawzall tool were also placed in that dumpster.
Investigators are also investigating a Snapchat group involving Hite and the aforementioned childhood friend. According to search warrants, the thread includes messages like “Ok well y’all might need to vouch for the homie.” and “Ya was anyone with me on the 7th?”
Background
Wengel, 25, was last seen on security footage at a Fargo Walmart on Jan. 3, 2026. Her family reported her missing Jan. 7.
Hite was arrested Feb. 10 and charged with murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement.
A judge has ordered Hite to undergo both a competency examination and a criminal responsibility examination at the North Dakota State Hospital.
Hite’s preliminary hearing has been rescheduled to June 19, 2026. His Felony Dispositional Conference has been moved to July 16, 2026.
