SAN LUIS OBISPO - Paul Flores and his father Ruben Flores have reportedly been taken into custody in connection with the 1996 disappearance of Cal Poly student Kristin Smart. The news was first reported by KSBY.

Paul Flores has long been the only suspect in the case, although he wasn't officially named the "prime suspect" by law enforcement until last month. Multiple search warrants have been executed at the home of Ruben Flores in Arroyo Grande, which is where Paul Flores lived when Smart disappeared.

According to sheriff's office custody records, Ruben Flores, 80, was arrested at 9:38 a.m. Tuesday and has been charged with accessory to a felony. His bond was set at $250,000..

Kristin Smart went missing on May 25, 1996, while attending California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and has not been heard from since.

What happened to Kristin Smart?

Around 2 a.m. on Memorial Day weekend 1996, Smart headed back to her residence hall after attending a party. Smart was accompanied by three fellow students. Two peeled off before reaching her dorm, walking back to their own residences. The third, Paul Flores, later told police he dropped her off on campus at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Perimeter Road in San Luis Obispo.

Smart was never seen again.

Story Date: April 15, 2021