Nashville Bars Cleared of Wrongdoing in Riley Strain Missing Person Investigation

The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) has released a report exonerating Nashville bars of any wrongdoing in the disappearance and subsequent death of Missouri college student Riley Strain.

On March 8, 2024, Strain embarked on a fraternity outing in downtown Nashville. Surveillance footage captured his movements as he visited several celebrity bars, including Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa and Garth Brooks' Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk.

Strain's body was later discovered in the Cumberland River after an extensive search. A toxicology report indicated that he died from drowning and ethanol intoxication, leading the chief Tennessee medical examiner to rule his death accidental.

Nashville Bars Cleared of Wrongdoing in Riley Strain Missing Person Investigation

In response, the TABC launched an investigation into whether Strain was served alcohol while visibly intoxicated. The agency reviewed surveillance footage, collected witness statements, and analyzed toxicology reports.

The TABC's findings revealed no concrete evidence, such as eyewitness testimony or video proof, that Strain was served an alcoholic beverage while visibly intoxicated at any licensed premises.

Nashville Bars Cleared of Wrongdoing in Riley Strain Missing Person Investigation

Over the evening, Strain visited at least four bars: Casa Rosa, Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk, Kid Rock's Big A-- Honky Tonk & Steakhouse, and Luke's 32 Bridge Bar. The investigation established that Strain consumed at least seven alcoholic beverages prior to his last known location.

At approximately 10:00 pm, Strain was ejected from Luke's 32 Bridge Bar after his speech became slurred. Surveillance footage captured him leaving the bar alone, and his whereabouts remained unknown afterward.

Nashville Bars Cleared of Wrongdoing in Riley Strain Missing Person Investigation

Despite clearing the bars of wrongdoing, the TABC emphasized the importance of responsible alcohol practices. The agency advised alcohol-serving establishments to provide refresher training to staff on the effects of alcohol and the factors affecting its absorption.

The bars visited by Strain did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the TABC's findings. However, the agency extended its condolences to Strain's family during this distressing time.

The TABC's investigation has exonerated Nashville bars of any wrongdoing in the tragic disappearance and death of Riley Strain. The agency encourages responsible alcohol practices and urges establishments to educate their staff on the effects of alcohol consumption.