A Missouri Man's Disappearance: The Story Of Riley Strain At Luke's 32 Bridge

A Missouri man who went missing after visiting Luke's 32 Bridge (named after Luke Bryan) in Nashville has turned up on a second video captured Friday night (March 8). When these two videos are put together, they tell a different story than the first video did alone. Riley Strain, a 22-year-old University of Missouri student, was reported missing on March 9 after his friends failed to reconnect with him following their night out in Nashville. The police have used helicopters, drones, and boats to search areas along the Cumberland River, raising concern over his well-being.

In the first video shared by the Metro Police, Strain is seen walking east across the intersection of 1st Ave. N and Gay St. He appears startled by a van driving through the intersection but continues to walk across the street. This moment marks a pivotal part in the timeline of his disappearance. The second video, captured just a few minutes earlier by Downtown Smoke and Vape Shop, shows Strain running east on Church St. He trips and falls near a cement-encased traffic pole, which seems to alter his pace drastically.

Strain's family believes he may have been confused after leaving the bar, especially since he had been out with a group of fraternity brothers visiting multiple bars that night. His hotel, Tempo by Hilton, was just six blocks from 32 Bridge. Billboards are now up around Nashville, seeking information about Strain's whereabouts. This incident not only raises questions about safety in nightlife areas but also highlights the importance of keeping track of friends during outings.

What Happened to Riley Strain?

The first video shared by the Metro Police finds Strain walking east across the intersection of 1st Ave. N and Gay St. He seems startled by a van driving through the intersection; however, once it passes, he walks across the street, possibly engaging with another group of walkers before walking in a circle and continuing the same direction. This behavior may indicate a level of disorientation, leading to his eventual disappearance.

In the second video captured just minutes earlier, Strain is seen running east on Church St. When he trips and falls near a cement-encased traffic pole, it becomes apparent that he is struggling to maintain his balance. He is slow to get up from the fall, and when the camera angle switches, he is seen holding his head, which raises concerns over his physical state at that moment. This incident's impact on his sense of direction and clarity is vital to understanding his disappearance.

Luke's 32 Bridge is located on Broadway and 3rd Ave., suggesting that Strain likely walked north along 3rd Ave before turning right onto Church. The location of his hotel, Tempo by Hilton, on 8th and Commerce, adds context to his movements. Strain's father, Chris, mentioned to WKRN-TV that the family felt he may have been confused after leaving 32 Bridge. This confusion, coupled with the effects of the night, could have led to his disorientation.

As the search continues, authorities urge anyone with information to call 615-862-8600. Billboards around Nashville are actively seeking information, indicating the urgency and community concern surrounding Strain's disappearance. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and awareness during nights out and the potential risks involved.