The SLO Police Department released more information last week regarding the murder of 59-year-old Sharon Ostman on July 11. Ostman's body was found on the edge of San Luis Obispo Creek, below Mission Plaza.

According to a SLOPD press release, Ostman died "as a result of a physical assault that did not involve a firearm or cutting weapon." The press release also stated that Ostman was sexually assaulted and had injuries on her head and face. There was no evidence of alcohol or controlled substances in her bloodstream.

Investigations into Ostman's death have led detectives to at least three western states and other parts of California, said Dan Blanke, SLOPD spokesperson.

"It's a very active investigation, even though it's been dragging along," said Blanke. "We've still got work that that we can be working on, but we haven't got the big break."

The difficulty of the investigation is heightened because Ostman was homeless, and individuals who may have information of her murder could be homeless as well and therefore hard to track down, said Blanke.

"Certainly the suspect could be another homeless person, but, even expanding on that thought, many of [Ostman's] friends and acquaintances are also homeless. Any of those people are people we would want to talk to," said Blanke. "That's one of the things that make this case kind of unique and frustrating."

A $1,000 reward had been offered through Crime Stoppers. Individuals with information are encouraged to call 549-7867.

-J.P.