The disappearance and tragic fate of Kristin Smart, a student at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO), is a haunting and unsolved mystery that continues to capture public attention. In 1996, Kristin Smart vanished without a trace while walking back to her dormitory after an off-campus party.

Despite extensive searches and investigations, Kristin’s whereabouts remained unknown for years. The case garnered national media attention, but the truth remained elusive. In recent years, renewed efforts to solve the case have brought some hope for answers.

In 2020, nearly 25 years after her disappearance, law enforcement announced the arrest of Paul Flores, a fellow student who was the last person seen with Kristin. Flores has been charged with murder, though Kristin’s body has not been found. This development reignited interest in the case and shed light on potential misconduct and mishandling of the investigation in its early years.

The tragic story of Kristin Smart’s disappearance is a reminder of the enduring pain faced by her family and the importance of justice in unsolved cases. It is also a testament to the resilience and dedication of law enforcement and advocates in seeking answers and closure for the victims and their loved ones.