News
Released: May 19, 2026 - Tuesday, 03:53 PM
During the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Office Detectives utilized a number of investigative resources and techniques, including ground penetrating radar (GPR) 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.
On 05-08-2026, Sheriff’s 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. Excavation activities continued on 05-09-2026, with investigators carefully sifting through the excavated soil for any evidence related to Kristin.
During the search of the property, investigators recovered several items considered evidentiary in nature. Those items are currently being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation. Ultimately, no human remains were recovered during the excavation.
The Sheriff’s Office remains fully committed to finding Kristin and bringing her home to her family.
No further information is available at this time. The Sheriff’s Office will not be making any additional comments or providing further updates regarding this investigation.
Search Warrant Information
Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: 805-781-4547Date and time of incident: 5-9-2026Place of Occurrence: 500 Block of East Branch Street, Arroyo GrandeVictim Information: N/ASuspect Information: N/AThe San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is releasing additional information regarding the recent search conducted at the property of Susan Flores, located in the 500 block of East Branch Street in Arroyo Grande. This investigation is related to the disappearance and murder of Kristin Smart and was conducted pursuant to a search warrant signed by a Superior Court judge.During the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Office Detectives utilized a number of investigative resources and techniques, including ground penetrating radar (GPR) 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.
On 05-08-2026, Sheriff’s 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. Excavation activities continued on 05-09-2026, with investigators carefully sifting through the excavated soil for any evidence related to Kristin.
During the search of the property, investigators recovered several items considered evidentiary in nature. Those items are currently being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation. Ultimately, no human remains were recovered during the excavation.
The Sheriff’s Office remains fully committed to finding Kristin and bringing her home to her family.
No further information is available at this time. The Sheriff’s Office will not be making any additional comments or providing further updates regarding this investigation.
