Where is Kristin Smart? Search warrant served at killer's mother's property after remains detected
Los Angeles Times • • general
Key Points:
- Nearly 30 years after Kristin Smart’s disappearance, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s investigators executed a search warrant at the home of Susan Flores, mother of Paul Flores, who was convicted of Smart’s murder but whose body has never been found.
- Scientists previously detected volatile organic compounds linked to decomposing human remains on Susan Flores' property using soil vapor sampling, a novel and still-theoretical method, prompting renewed investigation and search efforts.
- The search involves experts in ground-penetrating radar and soil science and is expected to last two days; authorities are also examining a neighboring property where similar compounds were detected.
- Despite multiple searches of properties owned by Paul Flores’ family and no remains found, the new scientific approach has given investigators renewed hope of locating Smart’s body.
- Susan Flores has not been charged, and her attorney has dismissed the possibility that her yard contains Kristin Smart’s remains, while the case continues to draw public attention, partly fueled by a podcast that reignited interest in the cold case.
