Riley Strain's body found in Nashville river, police say

Nashville, Tenn. — The search for missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain came to a tragic end on Friday morning when his body was discovered in the Cumberland River in West Nashville, approximately eight miles from downtown. The 22-year-old had been missing since March 8, following his departure from Luke's 32 Bridge, a bar owned by country singer Luke Bryan, located in Nashville's bustling downtown entertainment district.

Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed the recovery of Strain's body after receiving a report of a body found in the river in the Nations neighborhood of West Nashville. According to police, there was "no foul play-related trauma observed" on Strain's body. An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death.

Strain's disappearance had sparked an extensive search that lasted nearly two weeks, involving law enforcement, volunteers, and Strain's family members. The search efforts included analyzing surveillance footage from various bars and businesses in downtown Nashville, which showed Strain's path on the night of his disappearance. One of the last pieces of footage captured Strain interacting with a Metro Nashville officer on Gay Street, just south of the Woodland Street Bridge. His last phone ping was near James Robertson Parkway and Gay Street, where the search was initially focused.

In the days leading up to the discovery of his body, search efforts had shifted to the Cheatham Lock and Dam near Ashland City. Strain's bank card was reportedly found on the riverbank days after he disappeared, further concentrating the search efforts around the river.

Strain's family, who had traveled to Nashville immediately after being alerted to his disappearance, had been actively involved in the search. They described Strain as more than just a "college kid having fun," highlighting his kindness and caring nature.

The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) has been conducting a separate investigation to determine whether Strain was overserved on the night he disappeared. TC Restaurant Group, which owns and operates Luke's 32 Bridge, stated that records show Strain purchased and was served one alcoholic drink and two waters before being escorted out of the bar.

As the search transitions to an investigative phase, the Nashville community and Strain's loved ones are left mourning the loss of a young man whose disappearance captured the attention of many. The pending autopsy is expected to provide more answers regarding the circumstances of Strain's tragic death.