The murder of Scott Ratigan, a promising 24-year-old professional in Arlington, Virginia, remains a haunting and unsolved mystery since January 17, 2020. Ratigan, described as kind, driven, and sociable, was found dead in his AVA Ballston Square apartment under violent circumstances. 

Ratigan was discovered dead in his apartment after colleagues reported his absence from work. First responders found signs of a violent struggle, indicating that Scott likely fought back against his attacker. His death was ruled a homicide, and initial evidence suggested it was a targeted crime rather than a random act.

Surveillance Footage and the Person of Interest

Building security cameras captured a shadowy figure entering and leaving the AVA Ballston complex around the time of the crime. The individual was clad in dark clothing, a balaclava, and gloves, hiding their identity. This person moved in a deliberate but unusual manner, described as a tippy-toe or pigeon-toed gait. Their actions seemed calculated, but investigators have yet to determine whether the person was a professional criminal or someone acting impulsively.

Surveillance video recovered from an exterior camera shows a person of interest leaving the area around the suspected time of the homicide. The individual is described as a White male, approximately 5’6″ — 5’8″ tall, weighing 150 — 175 lbs, dressed in all black, carrying a black backpack and walking with his feet turned inward, often referred to as a pigeon-toed gait. Detectives would like to identify and speak with this individual.

The suspect’s attire and movements have fueled a lot of speculation, with some suggesting the individual was attempting to mask their identity further by altering their natural walk. This, combined with the lack of identification from neighbors or passersby, has significantly slowed the investigation.

Potential Theories and Motives

While the investigation has revealed no definitive motive, several theories are out there including: 

1. Personal Connection: Some speculate Ratigan knew his killer, potentially involving a personal vendetta or a dispute. Friends and family described him as friendly and approachable however.

2. Robbery Gone Wrong: Initial reviews of the crime scene raised questions about whether the attack stemmed from a failed burglary. However, no evidence of forced entry or significant theft has been confirmed publicly.

3. Stalking or Obsession: Online forums have explored the idea of a delusional stalker. One theory suggests Ratigan’s friendly demeanor may have unintentionally attracted someone with an unhealthy fixation, who then escalated to violence.

4. Random Act or Mistaken Identity: Some believe the crime may have been a random attack or a case of mistaken identity, though this theory has less support given the calculated nature of the surveillance footage.

Challenges in the Investigation

Multiple obstacles have slowed progress in the case:

– Disguised Perpetrator: The suspect’s full-body concealment, coupled with their deliberate attempt to avoid detection, left little forensic evidence.

– Building Access: AVA Ballston Square, a secure complex, raises questions about how the suspect entered. Residents speculated about possible tailgating—a common practice where individuals follow others into a locked building without using a key.

– Limited Witnesses: No residents reported seeing or hearing suspicious activity, adding to the challenges surrounding the crime.

Scott Ratigan’s murder has left his family and friends devastated, with ongoing efforts to keep the case in the public eye. Online forums like Websleuths have hosted discussions and analyses breaking down available evidence in hopes of uncovering new leads. Podcasts and true crime media outlets have also highlighted the case, urging anyone with information to come forward.

AVA Ballston had undergone renovations, the security cameras that were only in the lobby, were not working.

He was between jobs and not employed at that specific time.

Drugs, gambling, money, have all been ruled out by Arlington County Police Department.

His on and off girlfriend at the time had sugar daddies (unknown if it was fully stopped again before they were “on” again).

ACPD took an entire year to release the video. And there are not time stamps on it. He was apparently last heard by his close friends around 1pm.

Scott’s door was presumably generally unlocked.

Sister was away with friends.

Most plausible theory so far of people who have known him:

This was a hired hitman.

The Arlington Police Department has reiterated its commitment to solving the crime, though no significant breakthroughs have been reported. Authorities continue to request tips, emphasizing that even seemingly minor details could prove crucial.

Who was the individual captured on surveillance footage, and what motivated their actions? Was Scott Ratigan a random target, or was he specifically chosen?

Despite nearly four years, hope remains that justice will prevail. Investigators and Ratigan’s loved ones urge the community to remain vigilant and to share any information that might lead to the truth.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the Arlington Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Solvers.

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