In a chilling case that has captivated the community, a 21-year-old man has entered a not guilty plea in connection with the alleged dismemberment of his girlfriend. Joshua Hite stands accused of murdering 25-year-old Isadora Wengel, whose disappearance has raised numerous questions and concerns.
Wengel was last seen on December 31, 2025, and her family reported her missing about a week later. As investigations unfolded, authorities began to suspect foul play by January 10. Hite was taken into custody on February 10, facing serious charges of murder and tampering with evidence.
Reports indicate that investigators believe Hite used a saw purchased through DoorDash to dismember Wengel and disposed of her remains in a plastic tote during a frigid winter period. On January 4, authorities uncovered that Hite had made several alarming online searches, including terms like “home depot Sawzall” and “how to register for a legal alias.”
A significant breakthrough came when police found a receipt in a dumpster near Hite’s apartment, detailing a DoorDash delivery that included a Milwaukee Sawzall reciprocating saw, plastic sheeting, large trash bags, and duct tape. Authorities suspect Wengel was killed sometime between January 3 and January 6, but her remains have yet to be located.
According to KVVR, a saw blade recovered from Hite’s residence contained blood and bone fragments that matched Wengel’s DNA profile. During police interviews, Hite reportedly claimed that an argument with Wengel on January 4 led to her being dropped off at her home, a narrative that has raised eyebrows among investigators.
In March, a judge mandated a mental competency evaluation for Hite to assess his fitness to stand trial. Following a court appearance on July 15, he pleaded not guilty to charges including murder and evidence tampering, with his next court date set for September 3.
Hite has remained in custody since his arrest, with a hefty bond of $5 million set for his release. As this unsettling case continues to unfold, many are left wondering what the future holds for both the accused and the loved ones of the victim. What will the upcoming court proceedings reveal?