Daniel Paduchowski, an Arizona man who initially reported his wife missing, has now pleaded guilty to her murder, admitting to killing her and disposing of her body in a remote area. A plea deal has been reached, sentencing him to 16 years in prison for the second-degree murder of his wife, Kelly Paduchowski.
Daniel Paduchowski, 58, reported his wife missing on June 30 after she allegedly went for a run in the Flagstaff area and never returned. However, just days later, he confessed to the murder and pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, according to officials and court documents obtained by Fox News Digital.
Arizona Man Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in Wife's Death After False Missing Person Report
Initially, Paduchowski told police that his wife had gone for a run and a swim but never returned, painting a picture of a missing person's case to divert attention from his involvement. However, as the investigation unfolded, the truth began to unravel.
Cellphone data showed that Kelly's phone was last traced to the Schultz Creek Trailhead area around 10:20 a.m. on the day of her disappearance, while Daniel was seen in the same area about an hour later. This discrepancy raised suspicions about his alibi.
Arizona Man Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in Wife's Death After False Missing Person Report
Interviews with family members and other witnesses provided further evidence against Daniel. Authorities discovered evidence of assault within the couple's home, further implicating him in his wife's demise.
Upon his arrest on Monday for aggravated assault, a nearly week-long search for Kelly's remains commenced. On Friday morning, her body was finally located, confirming the tragic end to her life.
Arizona Man Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in Wife's Death After False Missing Person Report
As part of a plea deal, Daniel Paduchowski pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, concealment of a dead body, and possession of dangerous drugs. This plea deal stipulates a 16-year prison sentence, which is the presumptive sentence for second-degree murder in Arizona. He will not be eligible for early release of any kind.
The plea agreement also required Paduchowski to disclose the location of Kelly's body, along with her phone, keys, and the weapon used in the murder. This information assisted in completing the investigation and bringing closure to Kelly's family and loved ones.
Arizona Man Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in Wife's Death After False Missing Person Report
"This is obviously a monumental tragedy for Kelly's family and her loved ones," said Michael Tunink, senior criminal attorney at the Coconino County Sheriff's Office. "We've been in close communication with Kelly's family throughout this process about this resolution, which we pursued to bring finality in a situation that has weighed heavily on this community."
