Recently released police body camera footage from the Metro Nashville Police Department sheds light on the last known interaction with 22-year-old college student Riley Strain before his disappearance on March 8. Strain, a senior at the University of Missouri, went missing after a night out with friends during his fraternity's spring formal trip to Nashville.
The video shows an MNPD officer greeting Strain on Gay St., south of the Woodland St. Bridge, where Strain appeared to be walking in the opposite direction of the officer. The footage indicates that Strain did not seem distressed during the encounter.
Following the discovery of Strain's bank card in the same area where his phone last pinged on Gay Street, authorities intensified their search efforts. K-9 units and detectives were deployed to scour the vicinity for any clues regarding Strain's whereabouts.
Prior to his disappearance, Strain was last seen at Luke Bryan's bar, Luke's 32, on Broadway in downtown Nashville. The bar confirmed serving Strain one drink before asking him to leave based on their conduct standards. Strain had reportedly mentioned returning to his accommodations at Tempo by Hilton, located a short distance from the bar, to his friends before he went missing.
Family spokesperson Chris Dingman stated that there was no physical altercation involving Strain at the bar, and his abrupt departure surprised his loved ones as he is described as non-confrontational and courteous.
TC Restaurant Group, which operates Luke's 32, expressed cooperation with authorities in the search for Strain. Family members, deeply concerned about his well-being, emphasized Strain's close relationship with them and his usual communication habits, highlighting his absence as highly unusual.
The community remains hopeful for Strain's safe return, with his cousin expressing the family's eagerness to reunite with him and witness his upcoming graduation from the University of Missouri in May. As the investigation continues, authorities and volunteers are tirelessly working to locate Riley Strain and bring him back to his loved ones.
