Billy Wolf. Photo courtesy of Forum News Service
In August 1978, a man canoeing the Red River near Fargo, North Dakota discovered two plastic garbage bags. Inside was the severed body of 18-year-old William “Billy” Wolf Jr. The Billy Wolf murder remains unsolved more than four decades later, with few answers and lingering questions. Why was Billy targeted? Who was responsible for this brutal crime?
In Season 4 of Dakota Spotlight, host James Wolner investigates one of North Dakota’s most disturbing cold cases. Through interviews with friends, retired officers, and current detectives, the series explores Billy’s life, the investigation’s missteps, and new leads that may finally bring justice. This is Chasing Billy — a true crime journey into violence, memory, and the pursuit of truth.
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Episode 1: The severed body of Billy Wolf is found in the Red River near Fargo in 1978
Episode 2: Billy’s final days, a friend’s memories, and a plea to help solve the Billy Wolf murder
Episode 3: A former classmate turned cop shares insights on the Billy Wolf cold case
Episode 4: New listener tips lead to suspects, stolen guns, and Fargo’s criminal underworld
Episode 5: Interview with the detective currently assigned to Billy Wolf’s unsolved murder
If you have any information that could help solve the Billy Wolf murder, please contact the Fargo Police Department at 701-235-4493 or the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 701-328-5500. Even the smallest detail could help investigators reopen leads, verify timelines, pursue new suspects, and bring long-overdue answers to Billy’s family, friends, and the Fargo community.