A person of interest is in custody, according to Orange County sheriff's officials. Neighbors said the person of interest is a Marine and the woman's husband. Authorities could not confirm those details.
The crime took place in the area of Aliso Meadows and Via Lomas, sheriff's officials said.
Deputies found the woman in the area of Moulton and Alicia parkways around 2:30 p.m. when they went to check on her.
Neighbors and friends said a young married couple lived in the home with three children ages 1, 3 and 5. Authorities did not say if the children were home when the incident happened.
The mother of the deceased woman arrived on scene and was so distraught she fainted, authorities said. She was rushed to the hospital.
Authorities said they will continue to canvass the neighborhood for clues, evidence and more witness information.
No further information was immediately released.