Community Gathers to Search for Isadora Wengel

Organizers handed out maps of the Red River and encouraged searchers to mark where they had looked. They hoped to find Isadora and bring her home, but they also wanted to show support for her still-grieving family.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Since Isadora Wengel was reported missing in early January, the Fargo Police Department and other law enforcement agencies have been looking for her tirelessly.

The case against her boyfriend, 21-year-old Joshua Hite, has moved forward on circumstantial evidence – but neither officials nor the general public will rest until her remains are found.

To that end – civilians gathered at Dike East Park on the morning of February 15 to scour the banks of the Red River.

In a particularly impactful moment, Wengel’s father introduced himself to the crowd and expressed his gratitude for the support.

Organizer Maleah Jimenez stressed that this search was not an official police action, and while they certainly hoped to find Isadora, there was no promise the day would be of evidentiary value to law enforcement.

To the people involved – the value of the outing lies more in the message sent by their actions.

“What we yield today – even if it’s nothing, is good, it’s important, and that is just confirmation as such,” said Jimenez.\

Hite has been charged with Wengel’s murder and has made his first appearance in Cass County court.

His next hearing is set for March 11.