FARGO, N.D. (TCN) — A 21-year-old man police say dismembered and disposed of his girlfriend has pleaded not guilty in connection with her death.
Isadora Wengel, 25, was last seen Dec. 31, 2025, and was reported missing by her family approximately a week later. On Jan. 10, authorities announced suspected foul play. Joshua Hite was arrested on Feb. 10 and charged with murder and evidence tampering.
Investigators said they believe Hite dismembered Wengel with a saw that he purchased on DoorDash and disposed of her remains in a plastic tote bag during a midwinter freeze. During the investigation into Hite, it was learned that he allegedly made searches for “home depot Sawzall,” “door dash,” “junk removal near me,” “Dumpster,” and “how to register for a legal alias” on Jan. 4.
In a dumpster at Hite’s apartment building, police found a receipt from Home Depot for Milwaukee Sawzall reciprocating saw, clear plastic sheeting, extra-large trash bags, black duct tape, and a carbide saw blade, all of which were allegedly delivered to Hite via DoorDash on Jan. 4. Police believe Wengel was killed between Jan. 3 and Jan. 6, and her remains have never been found.
KVVR reports that a saw blade found at the apartment contained blood and bone fragments matching Wengel’s DNA profile.
Hite had allegedly told interviewers he and Wengel got into an argument on the morning on Jan. 4 because he wanted to break up with her. He claimed he then dropped her off at her home, according to WDAY.
In March, a judge ordered a mental competency exam for Hite to determine whether he is competent to stand trial.
KFGO reports that in a July 15 court appearance, Hite pleaded not guilty to murder, evidence tampering, and giving false information to law enforcement. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Sept. 3.
According to Valley News Live, Hite has been behind bars since his arrest in February. His bond is set at $5 million, cash only.
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