HONOLULU -- An arrest was made in a highly-publicized case involving a missing Japanese visitor, whom police said they believe has been killed -- although her body has not been found.

KITV's Catherine Cruz reported that second-degree murder is the charge authorities have levied against a Kalihi man they said they believe killed Masumi Watanabe, 21.

She disappeared on Oahu's north shore, investigators said. Her accused assailant, Kirk Lankford, remains in jail now, offically charged with the crime, police said.

Police said they found Watanabe's DNA on Lankford's pickup truck, as well as on a pair of glasses found in the vehicle. They also said they found what they believe were traces of blood.

Documents released Saturday said a witness called police with information about the case.

One witness told police he believes he saw Watanabe getting into a pickup truck. Another reported seeing Lankford digging a hole in Kahana.

The witness recorded a license plate number and also picked Lankford out in a lineup, police said.

Police said there were also questions about a cracked windshield on Lankford's pickup. He claimed the crack was casued when a bird hit it.

That windshield has been destroyed and replaced since Lankford was questioned about it.

Watanabe's family released a statement thanking everyone in Hawaii for their concern and help.

"We are obviously devastated by this event, and we are asking anyone who know anything about this event to please call the police. We would like to return to our Japan," said Jessica Rich, from the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii. Rich was acting as the family's spokeswoman.

It's unclear when Watanabe's family will return to Japan.

Lankford is expected to make his first court appearance Wednesday.