‘Everybody deserves answers’: Volunteers put up flyers in search for missing Missouri student
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — To find new information into what led up to the disappearance of 22-year-old University of Missouri student Riley Strain, volunteers put up flyers across downtown Nashville with Strain’s face, information, and the number to call with any tips.
“Let’s break out some flyers. And let’s just paint the city with them. And let’s hope for some news,” said Jennifer Ward as she was putting up missing person flyers.
For many like Ward, Strain’s case has felt personal. They can see their children, siblings, friends, or themselves in his situation. Ward has spent every day since learning about Strain’s disappearance searching for the missing student.
Officials focusing Riley Strain search efforts on Cheatham Dam
“I have seven kids of my own. One that is Riley’s age. And I just can’t imagine being in their shoes at all,” said Ward. “It’s people like us that, you know, come together to help this family so they can bring him home.”
Ward learned about Strain’s case on Facebook and immediately reached out to his father, Ryan Gilbert, to offer any assistance. “Not being from here, I could imagine being in their shoes and losing my child,” she said.
Ward offered the Strain family her camper to sleep in, food, and any connections she had in the area. She said after talking to Strain’s parents and relatives daily for nearly two weeks, she feels like she is a part of the family. “I’ve gotten to know them very well. They’re great people. They’re going through a lot.”
Tearful mother of Riley Strain says family focused on bringing him home
Gilbert said Ward and others who have come to their aid have gone above and beyond to help find his son and keep Strain’s case top of mind.
“I want them to bring him home. I’m praying for positive. But I’m praying for answers. Mostly everybody deserves answers. And that’s what we’re looking for. And closure is like something. And I’m emotional, because like I said, ‘What if it were me? What if nobody came to help?'” she said.
Ward put up about 200 posters on Wednesday and hopes to put up more than a thousand more on Thursday.
Riley Strain Continuing Coverage | The latest in the search for the missing Missouri student
Strain is 6-feet, 5-inches tall, with a slender build, blonde hair, and blue eyes, according to his family. If you see Strain or have any information about where he may be, you are asked to call the MNPD at 615-862-8600.
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