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Missing Woman Feared Dismembered by Boyfriend
18 Feb
Summary
- Woman last seen January 3, reported missing four days later.
- Boyfriend arrested, suspected of murder and dismemberment.
- Search for remains ongoing amid mid-winter thaw conditions.
A disturbing case has emerged in North Dakota where a woman, Isadora Wengel, 25, is feared to have been "heinously murdered" and dismembered by her boyfriend, Joshua Hite, 21. Wengel was last seen on January 3 in Fargo, and her family reported her missing four days later. This triggered extensive search operations, including a thorough investigation of a local landfill.
Authorities have now arrested Hite in connection with Wengel's murder. Police Chief David Zibolski stated there is probable cause to believe Hite murdered Wengel and tampered with evidence related to her body's disposal, suggesting dismemberment. Investigators found Wengel's DNA on items in Hite's apartment, including plastic sheeting and bloody gauze.
The investigation also revealed suspicious Google searches made by Hite, such as 'home depot Sawzall' and 'junk removal,' alongside an order for a reciprocating saw and other disposal supplies. Hite himself presented with recent injuries. He is currently held on a $5 million bail, facing charges of murder, tampering with evidence, and providing false information.
The search for Wengel's remains is ongoing. Police are specifically looking for a missing HDX 27-gallon tough storage tote, which they believe Hite may have used. A mid-winter thaw is anticipated to aid in the search, potentially revealing clues to Wengel's whereabouts.
