Authorities and community volunteers have expanded their search for Riley Strain, the 22-year-old University of Missouri student who disappeared nearly two weeks ago in Nashville. Initially, their efforts were concentrated on the downtown section of the Cumberland River. However, they have now shifted their focus to a dam located miles away from the initial search area.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department recently released a captivating video captured by one of their helicopters. The footage was taken while flying over the scenic Cheatham Dam, located approximately 40 miles away from the heart of Nashville.
The police department provided an update on the search for Riley Strain, stating that their helicopters are still actively flying over the Cumberland River. In a social media post accompanied by a video, they emphasized their ongoing efforts to locate Strain. While the Nashville police have been leading the investigation, they have also collaborated with the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office for operations downstream.
According to a report from CBS affiliate WTVF, officers collaborated to close the dam and conduct an inspection for any debris that had surfaced. Regrettably, no items related to the search for Strain were discovered during this operation.
According to David Flagg, the director of operations for the United Cajun Navy, a volunteer disaster relief organization involved in the search for Strain, it is believed that Riley may have accidentally fallen into the river and been carried away by the strong current. Flagg noted that the current was exceptionally swift on the day of his disappearance.
Search teams have been actively looking for Strain on the ground, on boats, and from the air.
On the night of March 8th, Strain was last spotted being asked to leave a bar in downtown Nashville. Shortly after, he had a brief encounter with a Nashville police officer while walking along a street near the Cumberland River. Over a week later, two members of the community stumbled upon Strain’s debit card on the riverbank, close to the spot where he and the police officer exchanged greetings on the night he disappeared.
After finding the debit card, the search efforts underwent a restructuring as the United Cajun Navy took charge in mobilizing individual community volunteers. In support of Strain’s case, the organization has provided airboats and a hovercraft.
The search for the missing college student has prompted Michelle Whiteid and Chris Whiteid, her parents, to remain in Nashville. Chris Whiteid, who is Strain’s stepfather, revealed to ABC News on Wednesday that their family is mentally preparing for the worst outcome as the search continues.
“Imagine being in our position. It’s a sentiment that resonates with everyone. It’s a thought that crosses everyone’s mind,” expressed Whiteid. “These discussions are beginning to take place, and it’s not the outcome we desire.”
