Police offer reward in 2012 murder case

The city of Costa Mesa is offering a $10,000 reward for information on a 2012 murder case.

The City Council on Tuesday authorized the reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for killing 50-year-old Costa Mesa resident Gary Smola.

Police found Smola dead in his home in the 1700 block of Whittier Avenue on the afternoon of Aug. 4, 2012.

According to the coroner, he died of blunt-force trauma to the head. Police said an unknown weapon was likely used to kill Smola.

Smola owned a boat and RV detailing business and had customers throughout Orange County, police said.

The Police Department asked for the reward because investigators had exhausted any leads from forensics and informants, according to a city staff report.

“Offering a substantial reward will greatly enhance the probability of obtaining the necessary information to bring the investigation to a successful conclusion,” the report stated.

Anyone with information should contact Costa Mesa Police Department investigators at (714) 754-5205 or the front desk at (714) 754-5281.

— Jeremiah Dobruck

Twitter: @jeremiahdobruck