The Disappearance of Brian Shaffer
A new person of interest was identified in March 2026 in the cold case disappearance of medical student Brian Shaffer, who vanished from a Columbus, Ohio bar in 2006, with two separate tipsters providing the same name. As of July 2026, the 'True Crime Garage' podcast received a new, 'precise' tip in March/April 2026 containing detailed information and names, which they are currently verifying, describing it as one of the most promising leads. The investigation has involved cell phone tracking, the FBI's VICAP database, and a search warrant executed for a basement near Lane Avenue where disturbed flooring was discovered. A panel discussion in April 2026 commemorating the 20th anniversary raised approximately $16,000 for cold case investigations.
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July 2026 — 1 developments
Panel Discussion Raises Funds for Cold Case Investigations on Brian Shaffer Anniversary
A panel discussion held in April 2026 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Brian Shaffer's disappearance drew hundreds of attendees and raised approximately $16,000 for a nonprofit organization supporting cold case investigations.
April 2026 — 1 developments
New Tip and Expert Insights Renew Interest in Brian Shaffer Cold Case
The 'True Crime Garage' podcast received a new tip in March/April 2026 containing detailed information relevant to Brian Shaffer's 2006 disappearance. Retired Sergeant John Hurst has also offered new perspectives on surveillance blind spots and construction areas near the bar that could have served as exit routes.
March 2026 — 4 developments
True Crime Garage podcasters receive 'precise' tip in Brian Shaffer disappearance case
True Crime Garage podcasters have received a 'precise' tip regarding the 2006 disappearance of Brian Shaffer, which they are currently verifying. This tip reportedly includes specific details and names that align with information they had previously withheld from the public. The podcasters describe this as one of the most promising leads they have received in the case.
New Person of Interest Identified in Brian Shaffer Cold Case
In March 2026, a new person of interest was identified in the Brian Shaffer cold case, with the same name being provided by two separate tipsters. Shaffer, a medical student, vanished from a Columbus, Ohio bar in 2006. The investigation has involved cell phone tracking and the FBI's VICAP database.
Podcasters and Detectives Reveal New Details in Brian Shaffer Disappearance
Podcasters and detectives revealed new details on March 20, 2026, concerning the 2006 disappearance of Brian Shaffer. These include a second person coming forward with information about a person of interest, a month-long triangulation of Shaffer's cell phone, and a search warrant executed for a basement near Lane Avenue where disturbed flooring was discovered.
New Tip Submitted to Police in Brian Shaffer Disappearance Case
A recent tip to the "Brian Shaffer Dead or Alive" podcast has been submitted to the Columbus Police Department, containing specific timelines and names not previously public. The tip involves a new individual, not previously considered a suspect, suggesting potential foul play in the 2006 disappearance.
January 2025 — 3 developments
Brian Shaffer's $14,000 credit card debt paid off before disappearance
New information has emerged revealing that over $14,000 in Brian Shaffer's credit card debt was paid off in March 2006, shortly before his disappearance, with no corresponding record in his bank accounts.
Clint Florence Refused Polygraph Test in Brian Shaffer Disappearance
A video revealed that Clint Florence, who was with Brian Shaffer the night he disappeared, refused to take a polygraph test, while Brian's father and another friend passed theirs.
Police learn of argument between Brian Shaffer and Clint Florence before disappearance
Police learned of an argument between Brian Shaffer and his friend Clint Florence in the days leading up to Shaffer's disappearance.
June 2024 — 1 developments
Ohio Brothers Sue Reddit User Over Disappearance Accusations
Ohio brothers file a lawsuit against a Reddit user who accused them of involvement in Brian Shaffer's disappearance and other cases. There is no evidence connecting the brothers to the disappearance.
January 2023 — 1 developments
Former Detective Reports Brian Shaffer's Phone Pinged After Disappearance
A former lead detective reportedly mentioned that cell phone pings were detected in the days following Brian Shaffer's disappearance, indicating his phone was powered on after he vanished.
March 2021 — 1 developments
Ohio Attorney General's Bureau and Columbus Police release age-progressed image of Brian Shaffer
The Ohio Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Columbus Division of Police released an age-progressed image of Brian Shaffer in March 2021, depicting what he might look like at age 42.
September 2008 — 1 developments
Randy Shaffer, Father of Missing Brian Shaffer, Dies in Accidental Fall
Brian's father, Randy Shaffer, dies in an accidental fall at his home. He had been actively searching for Brian since his disappearance.
September 2006 — 1 developments
Brian Shaffer's phone rings three times when girlfriend calls, then goes to voicemail
Brian Shaffer's girlfriend, Alexis Waggoner, calls his cell phone, and it rings three times before going to voicemail. This was unusual as calls typically went straight to voicemail, suggesting the phone was briefly turned on.