Search Warrant Executed at Home Linked to Kristin Smart Case

Authorities have executed a search warrant at the home of Susan Flores, mother of Paul Flores, who was convicted in the 1996 murder of Kristin Smart. The investigation continues as Kristin's remains have never been found, despite her being declared legally dead in 2002. The sheriff's office is committed to resolving the case, while Paul Flores maintains his innocence. The search is part of ongoing efforts to uncover new evidence in this long-standing mystery.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 02:42 IST

Investigation Continues into Kristin Smart's Disappearance

On Wednesday, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at a residence in Arroyo Grande associated with Susan Flores, the mother of Paul Flores, who was found guilty of murdering 19-year-old Kristin Smart in 1996. The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that this search is part of the ongoing investigation into Smart's mysterious disappearance. Despite being declared legally dead in 2002, Kristin's remains have never been located. Paul Flores was convicted in 2022 and is currently serving a 25 years to life sentence. However, the case remains open due to the lack of physical evidence in the form of her body.

The sheriff's office stated, “We are dedicated to bringing Kristin home to her family,” but did not provide additional information regarding the search. The residence that was searched belongs to Susan Flores, as indicated by public records and reports from the podcast 'Your Own Backyard,' which has been instrumental in generating new leads by encouraging witnesses to come forward. Efforts to contact Susan Flores for comments were unsuccessful.

Kristin Smart vanished from California Polytechnic State University in May 1996. Prosecutors have long contended that she was murdered during an attempted sexual assault, with Paul Flores being the last individual seen with her. In 2021, both Paul and his father, Ruben Flores, were arrested. Prosecutors alleged that Kristin's remains were initially buried on Ruben's property before being relocated. Ruben Flores was later acquitted of accessory charges, and his property is distinct from the one searched this week.

Paul Flores received his sentence in March 2023 and has reportedly faced multiple assaults while incarcerated. In 2024, a judge mandated that he pay over $350,000 to Kristin's family for expenses incurred following her death. The family has expressed willingness to waive restitution if Flores discloses the whereabouts of Kristin's remains, although his attorney has stated that the defense is unaware of her location. Paul Flores continues to assert his innocence.