Investigation Launched into Disappearance of College Student from Luke Bryan's Nashville Bar

Luke Bryan‘s Nashville bar, Luke’s 32 Bridge Food + Drink, is under investigation for reportedly serving too much alcohol to college student Riley Strain before he went missing. Tennessee officials announced on Wednesday, March 13, that they are examining the situation. Strain was last spotted at the downtown establishment on March 8 and was later asked to leave.

"We are looking into whether Mr. Strain was given alcohol when he was clearly drunk," said Aaron Rummage, the communications director for the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission, in a statement to NBC News.

As reported by local NBC affiliate WSMV, Strain was in Nashville with his fraternity from the University of Missouri for a spring formal. After being asked to leave Bryan’s bar at 9:45 p.m., he informed his friends that he was heading back to his hotel.

Chris Whiteid, Strain's stepfather, revealed in an interview on Top Story With Tom Llamas that Strain did not return to the hotel. Surveillance footage indicated that Strain may have taken a wrong route on his way back to his accommodation.

On Monday, March 11, University of Missouri officials issued a statement mentioning that they have been in contact with the family and Nashville authorities who are involved in the search for Strain.

"We prioritize the safety of our community," stated Angela King Taylor, interim vice chancellor for Student Affairs. "Our hearts are with Riley's family as the search goes on. We are ready to provide all the support we can to them, and we urge anyone in need of assistance to contact our counseling services."

TC Restaurant Group, the owner of Luke's 32 Bridge, had agreed to assist authorities by providing security camera footage and other relevant information.

Bryan, aged 47, used social media on Tuesday, March 12, to raise awareness about Strain's disappearance.

Luke Bryan Nashville Bar Is Investigated for Allegedly Overserving Missing Student Riley Strain 3

Luke’s 32 Bridge Robert Alexander/Getty Images

TC Restaurant Group, operator, and owner of Luke’s 32 Bridge is collaborating with the Metro Nashville Police Department to provide security camera footage and any other helpful information to assist in the search for Riley Strain. Their Instagram Story post expressed their support for Riley's family and loved ones, hoping for his safe return.

Bryan also shared a message, expressing his concern, "THIS IS SCARY. PRAYING FOR HIS SAFE RETURN. IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION THAT COULD HELP, PLEASE CONTACT THE NUMBER ABOVE."

Anyone with information about Strain’s disappearance has been asked to call police at 615-862-8600.

Editor's P/S:

The disappearance of Riley Strain, a college student last seen at Luke Bryan's Nashville bar, is a haunting reminder of the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption. The investigation into whether the establishment served Strain while he was visibly intoxicated raises serious questions about responsible alcohol service. It is crucial that bars and restaurants prioritize the safety of their patrons and adhere to strict guidelines to prevent over-serving and the tragic consequences that can follow.

Beyond the legal investigation, this incident highlights the importance of personal responsibility and vigilance among both bar patrons and establishment staff. Individuals should be aware of their own limits and avoid excessive drinking, while bartenders and servers must be trained to recognize and intervene when someone has consumed too much alcohol. By working together, we can create a safer and more responsible drinking culture that prevents unnecessary tragedies like the one involving Riley Strain. from establishments serving alcohol and individuals consuming it, to ensure the safety and well-being of all patrons.