San Luis Obispo County Solves 1983 ‘Toby’ Tate Murder, Case Exceptionally Cleared
Forensic genealogy produced the breakthrough that identified two deceased Texas suspects, enabling an exceptional clearance after a DA probable-cause review.
Overview
- The Sheriff's Office announced the 1983 homicide is solved and has been closed as exceptionally cleared following a District Attorney review that found probable cause to prosecute if the suspects were alive.
- Blood preserved from the scene was used for forensic genealogy, identifying Steven Richard Hardy and confirming the result through a close family DNA comparison.
- Fingerprints recovered from a Coca-Cola can placed Charley Sneed at the scene, and investigators report no evidence pointing to additional suspects.
- Both identified men were Texas residents at the time and are now deceased, which prevents the filing of criminal charges.
- Detective Clint Cole reopened the case and partnered with Othram, with investigators citing a likely burglary or theft motive after Tate’s camera surfaced in a California pawn shop.