San Luis Obispo rarely has any cases of crime, but in 1996, an unexpected and horrifying event occurred that put the whole town in a state of panic.  On May 25th, 1996; Cal Poly Freshmen Student Kristen Smart was seen for the last time. She was declared legally dead in 2002. Now, 14 years later, the case has been reopened, and excavation of the “P” on the hill, known as the “Poly P,” has begun this week in hopes of finding new evidence leading to answers of Smart’s case.

“My parents remember the fear in San Luis Obispo after Smart went missing. It’s intriguing that they may actually find her remains. It’s bittersweet since the family will know that she is actually dead, but better that than any brutal alternative,” said junior Hannah Ryan.

FBI agents, San Luis Obispo Police Department, and Sheriff’s deputies found what they believe to be remains, but it may take months to determine whether what they found is Smart’s remains. Cal Poly students and faculty along with the family of Smart are staying optimistic about the search that may lead to closure.

Source: sanluisobispo.com.