The search for Riley Strain, a missing University of Missouri student, concluded as authorities retrieved his body from the Cumberland River on Friday morning, ending a two-week effort.
Discovered eight miles downstream from his last known location, Strain’s body still wore the shirt he had on when he disappeared on March 8 after being ejected from Luke’s 32 Bridge in Downtown Nashville, according to Metro Nashville Police Department Chief John Drake. Despite the discovery, authorities do not suspect foul play in his vanishing or subsequent demise, Drake stated shortly after the recovery.
Barge operators alerted authorities to the presence of Strain’s body near the river, as they were engaged in removing an object from the water, Drake disclosed.
The extensive two-week search, conducted by air, boat, and on foot, involved various agencies and volunteers, including the Metro Nashville Police Department, Nashville Fire Department, Nashville’s Office of Emergency Management, Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office, the United Cajun Navy, and numerous volunteers.
Strain’s disappearance garnered widespread attention on national and social media, fueling speculative discussions about the circumstances surrounding his vanishing and death. Speculation heightened when a TikToker discovered Strain’s bank card on the riverbanks.
Authorities consistently stressed the absence of evidence supporting claims of foul play. While the police department received numerous tips suggesting foul play, none substantiated any leads, according to Sgt. Robert Nielsen.
Footage from businesses and law enforcement depicted Strain stumbling in Nashville after being ousted from the bar. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission initiated an inquiry into whether Strain was served excessive alcohol on the night of his disappearance. Luke’s 32 Bridge contends that Strain was served only one alcoholic beverage and two waters during his time at the establishment.
Collaborating with local law enforcement, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission sought to ascertain other establishments where Strain may have been served alcohol that night.
Drake confirmed that Strain’s family has been informed of his recovery.
