The mother of Riley Strain, the missing student who was tragically found dead in a Nashville river, has shared a heartbreaking message in the wake of her son's passing.
As previously reported, Strain, who went missing on March 8 after being escorted out of Luke Bryan's honky-tonk bar for intoxication, had been visiting Music City with his fraternity brothers from Delta Chi.
The 6'7" finance major was last captured on surveillance footage roaming the city streets after leaving the bar. Despite extensive efforts to locate him, only his bank card was found on March 17 along the river embankment, untouched since his disappearance, per FOX News.
According to reports, Strain had purchased one alcoholic drink and two glasses of water before security asked him to leave the bar citing "conduct standards." The establishment clarified that Strain was escorted out of the venue via the Broadway exit at 9:35PM, accompanied by one member of his party who later returned upstairs.
Metropolitan Nashville Police announced the discovery of Strain's body via X (formerly Twitter), stating: "The body of Riley Strain was recovered from the Cumberland River in West Nashville this morning, approximately 8 miles from downtown."
Police also noted that no signs of foul play were evident, but an autopsy is pending.
Following the discovery of Strain's body, his heartbroken family have spoken out.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Michelle Strain Whiteid, Riley's mother, said: "I just ask that you mommas out there hug your babies tight tonight, please. Please for me, hug your babies tight tonight," per FOX 17.
Ryan Gilbert, Strain's father, expressed gratitude to the Nashville Police Department, the United Cajun Navy, the community, and their family for their unwavering support in the search for his son.
"It's just unbelievable what they've done for us," Gilbert said.
Chris Whiteid, Strain's stepfather, described the past two weeks as an "emotional roller-coaster" and extended heartfelt appreciation to all who supported their family during this trying time.
"To the people of Nashville, I can't thank you enough for the support, the love, the encouragement that you've shown myself and my wife. You don't understand how much that meant to us in some of our darkest hours," Whiteid expressed.
On Friday evening, family, friends, and members of the Nashville community gathered for a candlelight vigil on Gay Street, one of the last places where the 22-year-old was seen.
Strain's parents and other family members all wore green, his favorite color, to honor his memory.
In a statement provided to The New York Post, Strain's fraternity, Delta Chi, honored their departed brother.
"The Delta Chi Fraternity is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our esteemed fraternity brother, Riley Strain," the statement read.
"Our hearts go out to Riley's family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time as we work to provide support and resources to all those affected by this tragedy."
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