Former Detective Believes “People of Interest” in Brian Shaffer Disappearance Knew Him

On the night of April 1, 2006, the 27-year-old Ohio State medical student Brian Shaffer went out with friends to the Ugly Tuna Saloona. Surveillance cameras captured him inside, laughing and socializing. But when the night ended, something chilling became clear—Brian was never seen leaving.  His friends searched for him that night but eventually went home without answers. From that moment on, Brian Shaffer was never seen or heard from again.  An intense investigation followed, with massive searches, national attention, and a reward that eventually reached $100,000. But in the years since, no confirmed sightings, no financial activity, and no answers have ever surfaced.  Criminally Obsessed’s Anne Emerson talked to former detective John Hurst about Brian’s disappearance, what we know 20 years later, and why people who have information on Brian's disappearance might hesitate to come forward.  If you have tips in the disappearance of Brian Shaffer, call the Columbus Police Department at 614-645-4545.  Share Brian’s missing person poster from the FBI.