Steven was last seen in Grant's Lick, Kentucky sometime during March 1989. He was in the process of a divorce at the time of his disappearance and his family thought he had left of his own accord as a result of the problems in his life. They didn't report him missing until 1992.

In June 2008, authorities arrested David Smith, Steven's brother-in-law on charges of murder and evidence tampering in Steven's presumed death. A photograph of Smith is posted below this case summary. Investigators believe Smith and another suspect, who is now deceased, beat and smothered Steven to death inside his home on Boone Smith Road. He admitted to his role in the crime. Steven's wife, Linda, was reportedly present during the murder but did not take part in it; she is not facing charges.

After his arrest, Smith lead police to a rural ten-acre site along the Licking River and they searched for Steven's body there, but found nothing. Smith is awaiting trial. Hafer has never been found.

Above: David Smith