Chris Whiteid, the stepfather of Riley Strain, has spoken out about the challenging discussions happening within the family as the search for Riley continues into its second week. Riley, a University of Missouri student, went missing during a fraternity trip to Nashville, Tennessee.
In an interview with ABC News on March 20, Chris shared the emotional toll the situation has taken on the family. He expressed frustration, hurt, and depression, emphasizing that these feelings are understandable given the circumstances. Chris urged the public to empathize with their pain, emphasizing the anguish of not knowing Riley’s whereabouts for almost two weeks.
Chris, who is married to Michelle Whiteid, Riley’s mother, pleaded for understanding, asking people to imagine their own family members being missing for an extended period. He highlighted the family’s need for support during this difficult time.
Riley was last seen on March 8 during a night out with his fraternity brothers in Nashville. He was ejected from a bar and indicated that he would walk back to the hotel where they were staying. Despite sightings of Riley near Gay St. and Riverfront Park, as captured by surveillance cameras, his whereabouts remain unknown.
On March 18, Riley’s bank card was discovered near the Cumberland River, but investigators have not found evidence of foul play. The uncertainty surrounding Riley’s disappearance has added to the distress experienced by Chris, Michelle, and their family.
Michelle has also shared her anguish, expressing the agony of not being able to communicate with her son, whom she usually speaks to multiple times a day. The prolonged silence has been particularly difficult for her to bear.
As the search for Riley continues, the family remains hopeful for his safe return and continues to appeal for any information that could aid in locating him.
The community’s support and cooperation in spreading awareness about Riley’s disappearance are crucial in the ongoing efforts to find him and bring him back home.
