Thirty Years Later, the Search for Kristin Smart Continues
By Sheriff Ian Parkinson · Tue Jul 07 2026
Thirty years have passed since Kristin Smart vanished without a trace, forever changing the lives of her family, her friends, and an entire community that has never stopped searching for answers.
For many in San Luis Obispo County, Kristin’s disappearance is more than a headline or case that captured national attention. It is a painful chapter in our community’s history that continues to weigh heavily on all of us. Generations have grown up hearing Kristin’s name, following the investigation, and hoping that one day she will finally be brought home to her family.
Recently, the Sheriff’s Office made national and international headlines when we conducted a search at the Arroyo Grande home of Susan Flores. She is the mother of Paul Flores. Paul was convicted of Kristin’s murder in 2022. Susan herself is still considered a person of interest in this case.
During the search, Sheriff’s Office detectives utilized a number of investigative resources and techniques, including ground-penetrating radar and soil vapor science. Soil scientists identified an area along the side yard of the property that produced results consistent with the possible presence of human remains.
Based on those findings, investigators secured an additional search warrant to excavate that specific area. In order for the excavation to take place, large concrete pavers along the side yard had to be removed. Detectives and forensic personnel then carefully sifted through excavated soil in an effort to locate any evidence connected to Kristin.
Ultimately, we did not recover Kristin.
While we understand the intense public interest surrounding this case, it is important to recognize that active investigations require patience and care. That’s why at the time, we declined to comment any further on the investigation.
What I can say is this: our commitment has not changed.
As I said in 2022 after the conviction of Paul Flores, there is no true closure until Kristin is reunited with her family. That remains our mission today.
Over the past three decades, countless investigators, detectives, prosecutors, forensic experts, and community members have dedicated themselves to seeking answers in this case. Through all of it, one thing has remained constant. The determination to never let Kristin be forgotten.
Kristin was more than a headline or a nationally known case. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a young woman whose future was stolen from her. Her absence continues to leave an immeasurable void for those who knew and loved her.
The Smart family has endured 30 years of uncertainty, grief, and unimaginable loss with remarkable strength and dignity. Our hearts remain with them as this investigation continues.
I also want to acknowledge our community. From the beginning, the people of San Luis Obispo County have stood beside the Smart family. You have kept Kristin’s memory alive. You have supported investigators, shared information, and refused to let time erase the importance of this case.
As Sheriff, I want the community to know this investigation remains active. The Sheriff’s Office will continue to pursue leads, conduct searches, and follow every path that could help us locate Kristin and bring her home.
Our commitment remains firm and resolute.
Until Kristin is brought home to her family, this mission is not over.