The Disappearance of Brian Shaffer
A Mystery that Still Haunts Columbus, Ohio
Blog
On the night of April 1, 2006, 27-year-old Ohio State University medical student Brian Shaffer walked into the Ugly Tuna Saloona, a popular campus-area bar, and was never seen again. Nearly two decades later, his disappearance remains one of the most perplexing unsolved cases in modern history. Despite extensive investigations, multiple theories, and years of searching, no definitive answers have emerged.
A Night Out That Turned Into a Nightmare
Brian was a second-year medical student at OSU, known for his intelligence, charm, and love for music. That evening, he was out with friends celebrating the beginning of spring break. The night started with drinks at various bars before ending at the Ugly Tuna, located in Columbus' bustling Gateway District. Surveillance footage captured Brian entering the bar around 1:55 a.m. with his friends, but there was no footage of him ever leaving.
The Investigation Begins
When Brian failed to meet his girlfriend for a planned trip to Miami days later, alarm bells rang. His family and friends had no idea where he was, and his phone went straight to voicemail. Police scoured the area, reviewing security footage, questioning patrons, and searching nearby construction sites, but found no clues as to what happened to him. What made the case even more puzzling was the bar’s only known exits: the main entrance, which was covered by surveillance cameras, and a back exit leading to a construction site. However, the cameras never recorded Brian leaving, leading to theories that he may have exited through an alternative, unmonitored route or that foul play was involved.
Endless Theories, No Answers
Over the years, numerous theories have circulated: Accident Theory: Some believe Brian may have left through an unmonitored exit, fallen into a construction area, and suffered a fatal accident. However, thorough searches yielded no evidence to support this.
Foul Play: Others speculate that Brian was murdered and that his body was disposed of in a way that prevented discovery.
Voluntary Disappearance: A small but persistent theory suggests that Brian may have chosen to disappear, potentially starting a new life elsewhere. However, this seems unlikely given his close relationship with his family and his promising future in medicine.
The Smiley Face Killer Theory: Some internet sleuths have connected Brian’s case to the alleged Smiley Face Killer theory, which suggests a pattern of young men disappearing under similar circumstances. However, no solid evidence links his case to this theory.
The Lingering Pain for Family and Friends
Brian’s disappearance left an enduring impact on those who knew him. His father, Randy Shaffer, never gave up hope but tragically passed away in 2008, still searching for answers. His mother had also passed away from cancer before his disappearance, adding another layer of heartbreak to the story. Brian’s longtime girlfriend, Alexis Waggoner, who had expected a proposal soon, was devastated.
A Case That Still Haunts Columbus
Despite years of leads, searches, and technological advances in missing persons investigations, Brian Shaffer remains missing. The case is still open, and the Columbus Police Department continues to ask for any information that might lead to answers. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Columbus Police Department or submit an anonymous tip. The hope remains that one day, Brian’s family and friends will finally get the closure they have long sought.
What do you think happened to Brian Shaffer? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
