Riley Strain Consumed Many Drinks Before His Death

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A recent investigation by the Metro Nashville Police Department has shed light on the circumstances surrounding the drowning of a University of Missouri student, identified as Strain, in the Cumberland River in March. The inquiry revealed that Strain consumed between 12 to 15 alcoholic drinks during a fraternity formal in downtown Nashville, raising concerns about the events leading up to his tragic death. Fraternity members from Delta Chi, who traveled to Nashville for the event, reported that while the bus driver enforced a no-alcohol policy, drinking occurred among the group. Witnesses indicated that Strain had at least five drinks, including two vodka shots and three IPAs. Legal expert David Easlick highlighted the significance of the alcohol content in these drinks, noting that fraternity regulations prohibit serving drinks with more than 15 percent alcohol unless provided by a licensed third party. The investigation did not clarify whether licensed servers were involved. Footage from local bars confirmed that Strain was served alcohol three times that night, with investigators expressing concern over his level of intoxication. One fraternity brother described Strain as being in a "comatose" state during a phone call shortly before his death. The investigation raises questions about the accountability of those involved, as fraternity members reportedly continued their festivities despite Strain's condition. Easlick criticized the fraternity's risk management policies, suggesting that their claims against alcohol abuse are insincere. The findings have prompted inquiries to both the national Delta Chi chapter and the University of Missouri regarding their handling of alcohol-related incidents.