In a press conference held on Tuesday, the family of missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain, along with officials, provided an update on the ongoing search for the young college student. Strain went missing on March 8 after being ejected from Luke's 32 Bridge in Nashville, where he was visiting for a fraternity trip.

The case of Strain's disappearance has received national attention, prompting a collective effort in finding him. During the press conference, Strain's family announced that the United Cajun Navy, a group of private citizens with boats, will be joining the search operation. They encouraged others who wish to participate in the search to do so through official channels, stressing the importance of safety.

Despite extensive search efforts conducted on land and in the river, authorities have yet to locate Strain. However, a breakthrough in the investigation occurred on Sunday when Strain's bank card was discovered on an embankment near the Cumberland River, close to the area where his phone last pinged off a cellphone tower.

David Flagg, the national director of operations for the United Cajun Navy, stated that the group will deploy an airboat and a hovercraft in the coming days to aid in the search along the Cumberland River bank. Flagg emphasized the need for an organized and safe search operation, with the priority being to find Strain and ensure the well-being of all those involved.

Addressing concerns raised on social media, authorities clarified that there is presently no evidence suggesting any criminal activity in Strain's disappearance. Metro Nashville Police Sergeant Robert Nielsen assured the public that the department is actively involved in efforts to locate the missing 22-year-old, despite some criticism regarding the response from local authorities. Strain's family expressed their appreciation for the support received and their confidence in the detectives leading the search.

The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission has initiated an investigation to determine if Strain was served excessive amounts of alcohol during his time on Broadway. Luke's 32 Bridge, the establishment from which Strain was ejected, asserts that he was served only one alcoholic beverage alongside two glasses of water on the night he vanished.

As the search for Riley Strain enters a critical phase, the addition of the United Cajun Navy to the operation brings newfound hope and resources. The collective efforts of law enforcement, private citizens, and concerned parties aim to bring Strain back home safely, while ensuring that the search remains well-coordinated and secure.