The serene landscape of San Luis Obispo County, California, has become the backdrop for a chilling murder mystery that reads like a crime thriller. The remains of Stephen Chen, a 57-year-old divorce lawyer who vanished without a trace in March, have been discovered buried on a remote ranch.
The prime suspect in this gruesome case is a former police officer, David Reitz, who also happens to be the owner of the property where Chen was found. Reitz, 61, was not a stranger to Chen; he was reportedly a client of the lawyer, adding a deeply personal and complex layer to the investigation.
A Sinister Discovery
Authorities were led to the sprawling ranch after a prolonged investigation into Chen's disappearance. The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office confirmed the grim find, stating the body was located in a concealed burial site on the property. Reitz has since been arrested and charged with murder, kidnapping, and special circumstances allegations that could see him face life imprisonment.
A Web of Motive
While officials have remained tight-lipped about a precise motive, the connection between attorney and client suggests the case may be rooted in their professional dealings. The world of divorce law can be fraught with high emotions and contentious battles, potentially creating a dangerous environment. The special circumstances charge indicates prosecutors believe the murder was premeditated.
Reitz's background as a former cop adds another disturbing dimension, implying a level of knowledge that may have been used to evade initial detection. The community and Chen's family are left reeling from the horrifying outcome of a search that lasted for months.
The case continues to develop as investigators piece together the final days of Stephen Chen's life and the events that led to his tragic death.
