Skeletal human remains recovered in Fargo last week near the Red River are confirmed to be those of Brenda Kay Kartes, a 31 year old woman who went missing in July of last summer.
Fargo Police Deputy Chief Joe Anderson says evidence cannot prove whether or not Kartes was a victim of homicide, but that circumstances surrounding her death are suspicious. The medical examiner could not determine a cause of death.
Kartes was reported missing on July 12, 2018 after leaving Center Inc, when she did not return after checking out that day. She was said to have left alone on foot. Anderson says some comments Kartes made before her disappearance led people to believe she was going to Texas. Her remains were found on August 22, 2019 on property belonging to Riverside Cemetery in Fargo.
Deputy Chief Anderson says they are hoping someone will step forward with information regarding Kartes' disappearance and death.
"What I'm about to say next is very important, and I cannot stress enough, " Anderson says. "We believe there is someone or multiple people who have additional information about Brenda's disappearance or death. We are asking for anyone with information regarding Brenda's disappearance, death, or both to contact us on our tip line at 701-241-5777, or text a tip at 701-730-8888."
Police Chief Dave Todd says since Kartes was reported missing, all leads and information about her case have been investigated. He says the department remains committed to getting more answers for Kartes' family.