A 17-year-old from Orange County faces several felony charges, including attempted murder, for allegedly attacking his father, a 50-year-old reserve officer, with a hammer.

The Orange County District Attorney’s office says at approximately 6:30 a.m., Wednesday, John Kudla grabbed a construction hammer from the kitchen, then walked upstairs to his father’s bedroom and struck him in the head multiple times with that hammer.

Authorities say Kudla then got dressed, ate breakfast and told another family member in the house taht his father was sick and would probably stay in bed all day. He then took his dad’s wallet and car to school. During school hours, Kudla allegedly took some friends to a local McDonald’s but did not return to school.

Officials say another family member found the victim injured and bleeding, he was transported to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, where he remains in a comatose and critical condition.

The same day of the attack, a CHP officer spotted Kudla northbound on the 5 Freewa in Los Angeles, pulling him over and taking him into custody. Authorties also found the rinsed hammer used in the attack in Kudla’s home.

Kudla faces three felony counts each of attempted murder, aggravated assault, unlawful taking of a vehicle and a sentencing enhancement for causing brain injury and paralysis.

If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime, it is paramount that you are represented by an aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights and charges. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Brower and Associates are ready to fight for you, call Brower and Associates for help with your case today.