Less than a week after reporting his wife missing, an Arizona man has confessed to killing her and pleaded guilty to murder, according to authorities. Daniel Paduchowski, 58, entered a guilty plea on Friday, admitting to second-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, concealment of a dead body, and possession of dangerous drugs, as stated in the plea agreement.

The remains of Kelly Paduchowski, 45, were discovered after Daniel Paduchowski led authorities to the location, along with her cell phone and the murder weapon, CBS affiliate KPHO-TV reported. The specific details of where the remains were found have not been released by the Flagstaff Police Department.

The quick resolution of the case, which had initially sparked an extensive search and turned into a criminal investigation, comes as a result of the plea agreement reached earlier on Friday. Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly acknowledged the community's engagement and expressed gratitude for their involvement in the case. He stated, "When communities are not indifferent, and they are engaged at this level, these are the outcomes that you have."

The motive behind the killing remains unknown as authorities have not provided any details regarding what may have led to the incident. However, court documents obtained by KPHO-TV mentioned that neighbors heard a scream and witnessed Kelly Paduchowski lying face down in the yard with her husband on top of her. Neighbors reportedly observed Daniel Paduchowski later spraying the same area with a hose, and investigators discovered fresh blood at the residence.

Daniel Paduchowski's attorney has not commented on the case. Michael Tunink, a senior attorney at the Coconino County attorney's office, stated that the defendant is expected to receive a sentence of 16 years without parole. Paduchowski's sentencing is slated for September 10.

The investigation began when Paduchowski contacted Flagstaff police on Sunday night, reporting that his wife had not returned after going for a run and swim at Lake Mary, southeast of Flagstaff. Suspicions arose when Kelly Paduchowski's car was found on the other side of town. By Monday morning, the case transitioned into a homicide investigation, leading to Daniel Paduchowski's arrest.

Authorities lauded the efforts put forth during the search for Kelly Paduchowski, which involved numerous local and federal agencies, as well as search and rescue teams utilizing foot searches, helicopters, mountain bikes, search dogs, and drones. Around 60 community members also volunteered to assist in the search efforts.

Flagstaff Police Chief Connolly expressed his admiration for the victim's family and their resilience throughout the ordeal. The family, in a statement provided to KPHO-TV, expressed gratitude to the law enforcement teams and the city of Flagstaff for their support.

The sentencing of Daniel Paduchowski will mark the conclusion of a tragic and deeply distressing case that shocked the local community.