Missing University Student Riley Strain Found Dead in Nashville’s Cumberland River
via WKRN News 2 / YouTube
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department confirmed on Friday that a body found in the Cumberland River in West Nashville belongs to missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain. The discovery was made around 8 miles from downtown Nashville.
Police Chief Confirms No Foul Play in Riley Strain’s Death
Police Chief John Drake revealed during a news conference that no foul play is suspected in Strain’s death.
“There is no other evidence that suggests anything other than Strain falling into the river,” he said.
Drake also mentioned that Strain still had his clothes, watch, and other personal items on him. No signs of trauma were observed, but an autopsy is still pending at this time.
Strain, a 22-year-old student, went missing during a fraternity trip to Nashville and was last seen on March 8 after being asked to leave Luke’s 32 Bridge, a bar owned by country singer Luke Bryan. Following the discovery of Strain’s debit card along a Nashville river, the search efforts focused on the waterways in the area.
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Intensive Search Efforts Lead to Discovery of Riley Strain’s Body in Cumberland River
The search initially concentrated on the downtown section of the Cumberland River before expanding to include a broader area, such as the Cheatham Dam, located approximately 40 miles from downtown Nashville. Helicopters, boats, and ground crews were utilized in the search, with authorities inspecting debris that surfaced near the dam.
Workers at a company along the river spotted Strain’s body around 7 a.m. Chief Drake mentioned that the discovery was made as the workers were removing an object from the river. Officers had planned to search this area today, believing that due to Strain’s height and weight, his body could surface in this particular location.
“They removed something from the river and as they moved it, they noticed Mr. Strain and called it in,” Drake explained.
Throughout the search, the police department received over 200 tips regarding Strain’s whereabouts. Drake expressed gratitude towards the community for their support and efforts.
“Heart and prayers go out to Strain’s family,” he added.
The Cumberland River, spanning over 680 miles through Kentucky and Tennessee, is a significant waterway with numerous dams. The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department collaborated with the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office for downriver operations. The United Cajun Navy, a volunteer disaster relief organization, also participated in the search.
