FORT TOTTEN — The Spirit Lake Tribe has announced that it has confirmed the human remains discovered on Saturday, Nov. 15, during a family-organized search for missing tribal member Isaac Hunt have been positively identified as Hunt. His family has been notified, according to a release from the tribe.

The Spirit Lake Tribe also stated it is aware the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have announced a federal second degree murder charge against D’Angelo James Hunt, Isaac’s younger brother. According to the tribe, the family has expressed that they do not want D’Angelo portrayed as a bad person but shared he had been experiencing significant mental health struggles. The family was unaware he was considered a suspect prior to the announcement.

Isaac Hunt had been missing since March 2024, prompting nearly two years of persistent search efforts led by his family and supported by community volunteers and the Spirit Lake Tribe. The confirmation of his remains brings a difficult but significant measure of closure to a long and emotionally demanding search, the tribe stated in the release.

“Our search for Isaac was driven by love, hope, and the belief that we could bring him home. There were many moments when it felt like we were searching on our own, but we kept going because we couldn’t give up on him. While today brings immeasurable sadness, we are deeply grateful for every person who stood with us and helped carry this weight. We could not have made it through this journey alone,” said Phyllis DuBois, Isaac’s aunt.

In response, the Spirit Lake Tribe is organizing community assistance efforts to help provide the children and immediate family with winter coats, clothing, essential supplies and monetary support during this difficult time.