The case of Rory James Schaffer, a 45-year-old U.S. Navy veteran, began with deep concern and ended in tragedy. Last seen on November 1, 2022, in Newnan, Georgia, his disappearance prompted a multi-agency investigation. Schaffer, a former submariner who had served at Kings Bay, was reportedly struggling with PTSD following his service, which included time in the Afghanistan War. Complicating the emotional landscape of his life, he had also recently experienced the loss of his cherished pet just a couple of months prior to his disappearance. His family and friends were left with unanswered questions when he vanished without a trace, initiating a prolonged period of uncertainty and worry.
A significant development in the case came on November 9, 2022, when Schaffer's vehicle was discovered abandoned in Newnan. The truck, a distinctive 2018 silver and black Dodge Ram 2500 with Idaho license plates, was found deserted, deepening the mystery surrounding his whereabouts. This discovery officially triggered the missing persons investigation, with the Coweta County Sheriff's Office in Georgia and the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office in Alabama leading the efforts. The case, registered under NamUs #MP97546, sought to piece together the timeline leading up to his disappearance.
Regrettably, the search for Rory Schaffer concluded with the discovery of his death. He passed away on March 16, 2023, in Newnan, Georgia. An obituary confirmed he had been struggling with PTSD at the time of his death. The case, which began as a search for a missing person, transitioned into a painful confirmation of loss for his family, including his daughter and parents. The investigation into his disappearance highlighted the silent battles that many veterans face and left a community to mourn the loss of a man who had served his country.
Last Seen: Nov 1, 2022