University of Missouri Student's Death Linked to Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Riley Strain, a 22-year-old University of Missouri student, tragically drowned after a night out in Nashville during a fraternity spring formal trip in March. A police investigation revealed that Strain was served between 12 to 15 alcoholic drinks prior to his death, leading to a blood alcohol level of .228%. The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) reported that Strain died from drowning and ethanol poisoning. The investigation details how Strain began drinking on a bus ride from Missouri to Nashville, despite a strict no-alcohol policy enforced by the bus driver. He reportedly consumed at least five drinks, including vodka shots and IPAs, during the 6.5-hour journey. Upon arrival in Nashville, Strain was seen on surveillance footage enjoying a margarita at a downtown restaurant before he began to show signs of intoxication later that evening. Around 9:30 p.m., Strain was asked to leave Luke's 32 Bridge bar due to his behavior. The bar's security team escorted him out, but he was last seen walking in the direction of his hotel. Despite video footage not showing him as visibly drunk, he was later seen stumbling away from downtown towards the Cumberland River. Strain's body was discovered on March 22, two weeks after he went missing, by a worker along the river. The investigation continues to seek clarity on the circumstances surrounding his excessive alcohol consumption and subsequent disappearance.