Keddie Cabin Murders Part 2
Forensic Tales
Deep Dive
What happened to the three boys who survived the Keddie Cabin murders and why were they spared?
The three boys—Rick and Greg Sharp, and their neighbor Justin Smart—were found unharmed in one of the bedrooms. One theory suggests that Marty Smart, Justin's stepfather, was involved in the murders and spared the boys because one of them was his own son.
What evidence was found at the crime scene of the Keddie Cabin murders?
Three murder weapons—a bent steak knife, a bloody butcher knife, and a claw hammer—were found inside the cabin. Blood evidence suggested the victims were moved or staged before the killers left, but no DNA from the killers was initially identified.
Why did the Plumas County Sheriff's Department not consider Marty Smart a suspect initially?
Despite Marty Smart's suspicious behavior and statements, the Plumas County Sheriff's Department let him go after one interview and did not consider him a suspect. Some speculate this was due to the then-sheriff Doug Thomas's personal friendship with Marty.
What did the anonymous caller say about the remains found near Feather Falls, and why is this significant?
The anonymous caller suggested the remains might belong to Tina Sharp, who had gone missing three years prior. This is significant because the caller knew about the remains before they were publicly identified, raising suspicions about their involvement.
What new forensic evidence was found in 2018, and why is it important?
DNA was found on a strip of white medical tape used to bind the victims. This DNA matches that of a known living suspect, which could be a key to solving the case. However, the identity of the suspect has not been disclosed.
What is the most widely accepted theory about the motive behind the Keddie Cabin murders?
The most widely accepted theory involves a love triangle between Marty Smart, Marilyn Smart, and Sue Sharp. Marty and Sue were allegedly having an affair, and Sue was counseling Marilyn to leave Marty. This led Marty to enlist his friend Bo Bobadie to kill Sue and the others.
Why is the hammer found at the bottom of the pond significant, and what does it suggest?
The hammer found at the bottom of the pond matches the description of the one missing from Marty Smart's garage. Its intentional placement suggests it was hidden there to avoid detection, potentially linking it to the murders.
What are the current rewards and resources for solving the Keddie Cabin murders?
There is a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the killer or killers. Tips can be submitted to the Plumas County Sheriff's Office at 530-283-6360.
What are the challenges in solving the Keddie Cabin murders, and what is the current status of the case?
The case faces challenges due to mishandled forensic evidence, lack of credible leads, and the death of primary suspects. Despite new forensic evidence and ongoing investigations, the case remains unsolved, with the identity of the DNA match on the tape still unknown.
- Quadruple murder in Keddie, California
- Victims: Sue Sharp, John Sharp, Dana Wingate, Tina Sharp
- Weapons: steak knife, butcher knife, claw hammer
- Three surviving boys in adjacent bedroom