Son arrested on suspicion of murder after father’s body found near trail in Laguna Niguel

A body found near a trail on Friday was that of a 59-year old Laguna Niguel resident and his son was arrested on suspicion of killing him, authorities said Saturday, Nov. 24.

Just before 4 p.m. Friday, Orange County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to the 29000 block of Highlands Avenue in Laguna Niguel after a body had been discovered. The death was treated as a homicide, authorities said Friday.

Authorities identified the victim as Christopher Ludwig of Laguna Niguel. His injuries were consistent with trauma caused by a heavy object, said Carrie Braun, spokeswoman for the sheriff’s department.

Investigators also believe Ludwig was killed where his body was found near a trail close to the intersection of Highlands Avenue and Braxton Street. An object believed to be used in the slaying was found by investigators at the crime scene, Braun said.

Ludwig’s 18-year-old son, Maximilian Ludwig, was at the scene when deputies arrived and was later arrested on suspicion of murder and booked into Orange County Jail. He is ineligible for bail and will make a court appearance Tuesday, Nov. 27, Braun said.

The investigation is ongoing and authorities were asking anyone with information to contact OCSD Dispatch at 714-647-7000. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.