NORTH ADAMS, Mass. -- A North Adams man accused of murdering his wife has been arraigned in Northern Berkshire District Court Monday morning. 

Police say that 47-year-old Mark Steele- Knudslien killed his wife Christa on Friday, then went to the Adams Police Department and told an officer everything that happened.

Steele-Knudslien is charged with first-degree murder and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf in court. He was remanded to jail without bail. 

Police say before 9 p.m. on Friday he asked to speak with an officer at the Adams Police Department. 

After hearing his Miranda Rights, police say he said he got into an argument with Christa earlier that evening and he hit her numerous times with a hammer, and then stabbed her in the back.

Police say he went on to tell the officer he then cleaned up, took a shower, went to the liquor store, returned home and wrapped her body in a tarp and put her in the basement before he went to the police department. 

North Adams Police responded to the home and found her body and the scene portrayed what he told police. 

An autopsy was performed Sunday morning where her death was ruled homicide.

An outpouring of support for Christa can be seen on Facebook through the Berkshire Pride Center. 

They’ve posted about Christa’s death saying she’s the first member of their trans community to die this year. 

The group is holding a vigil at 6 p.m. on Main Street at the Mohawk Theater.