A 27-year-old woman named Tatum Goodwin was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Laguna Beach over the weekend. Her body, which showed signs of trauma consistent with homicide, was discovered by a construction worker on November 12th. Goodwin had worked as an assistant manager at Carmelita’s restaurant for four years, and her body was found in an alleyway near the restaurant.
Following the discovery of Goodwin’s body, police arrested a 26-year-old man named Dino Rojas-Moreno in connection with her death. The arrest was made with the assistance of the Newport Beach and Anaheim police departments. Rojas-Moreno is identified as a suspect in the case.
Friends and family remember Goodwin as a loving and vibrant person. Her mother, Stacy Goodwin-Pitino, described her as a happy-go-lucky individual who was always willing to help others. Goodwin’s sister, Kaylee Goodwin, emphasized the positive impact she had on those around her.
Hundreds of people gathered on the San Clemente Pier to honor and remember Goodwin. The vigil took place on November 15th, three days after her body was discovered. The community came together to mourn the loss of a young life.
The brutal crime has shocked the small coastal community of Laguna Beach, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and bars. However, authorities believe that the homicide was an isolated incident and that there is no further threat to the community. The motive for the killing and the relationship between Rojas-Moreno and Goodwin remain unknown.
Rojas-Moreno is currently being held on $1 million bail. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Laguna Beach Detective Tanner Flagstad can be reached at 949-497-0369 or via email at tflagstad@lagunabeachcity.net. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, visit KTLA.
