Fergus Falls and Family Offer Reward for Missing Man
Fergus Falls Police Department and the family of Joshua Ard announced a one thousand dollar reward for information on his whereabouts, as authorities continue to treat him as endangered. The notice provides identifying details and multiple reporting options, information that matters to residents who may have seen him or local footage for the months he was missing.
Fergus Falls law enforcement and family members jointly announced on December 8, 2025 a one thousand dollar reward for information leading to the whereabouts of Joshua Ard, 44, who is considered endangered. Family members reported they have not seen or heard from Ard since late June, prompting a sustained effort to locate him and to generate new leads through community engagement.
Ard is described as about five feet six inches tall and about 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. The Fergus Falls Police Department and Otter Tail County Dispatch are asking anyone with information to contact the police at 218.332.5555 or county dispatch at 218.998.8555. Those who prefer anonymity may submit tips through crimestoppersmn.org. The reward offer is intended to encourage information from residents who may not yet have come forward.
The announcement underscores the role local residents play in missing person investigations. Home security footage, social media posts and community recollections can be crucial in narrowing timelines and confirming movements. For a county the size of Otter Tail, cooperation between investigators and neighbors remains the primary tool to resolve cases where formal leads are limited.
From an institutional standpoint, the joint announcement by police and family highlights a common strategy in communities when initial investigative avenues yield few results. A publicly posted reward can accelerate tip flow and provide investigators with fresh lines of inquiry, while also placing pressure on agencies to process and follow up on incoming information promptly. Residents who submit tips should provide as much detail as possible and expect investigators to follow standard procedures to verify and act on credible leads.
The case remains an active concern for Fergus Falls. Anyone with relevant information is urged to call 218.332.5555 or 218.998.8555, or to submit an anonymous tip at crimestoppersmn.org. Timely public cooperation could be decisive in locating Joshua Ard and resolving his status for family and the broader community.
