Investigation into Tragic Drowning of Missouri Student Riley Strain Unveils Possible Violation of Fraternity’s Alcohol Consumption Rules

Nashville Police Investigation Reveals Tragic Details Behind Riley Strain’s Untimely Death

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A recent investigation by local authorities has uncovered that Riley Strain, a 22-year-old University of Missouri student, consumed between 12 to 15 alcoholic drinks before he tragically drowned in the Cumberland River during a fraternity trip in March. The findings have raised questions about personal responsibility and the potential influence of fraternity culture.

Details of the Incident

Strain’s death occurred on the night of March 8. His body was later recovered from the river, and the official cause of death was identified as drowning combined with ethanol intoxication, with a noted blood alcohol concentration of .228. This level is significantly higher than the legal limit for driving, which is .08.

According to the investigation, authorities from the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) conducted interviews with members of Strain’s Delta Chi fraternity. These brothers traveled from Missouri to Nashville for a fraternity formal. While there were strict rules about no alcohol during bus travel, testimonies indicated that drinking was rampant once they arrived in Nashville.

Fraternity Culture and Alcohol Consumption

One fraternity brother reported that Strain consumed at least five drinks during the early part of the night, including two vodka shots and three India Pale Ales (IPAs). This level of alcohol consumption, combined with the other drinks he had throughout the night, likely played a significant role in his intoxication.

Legal expert David Easlick, who has experience dealing with fraternity-related cases, noted that the amount of alcohol consumption shown in the investigation may violate their own fraternity rules. According to their guidelines, drinks containing more than 15 percent alcohol should only be served by licensed professionals during official events. A webinar hosted by Delta Chi previously indicated that violations could lead to serious consequences, such as probation or corrective action.

The Timeline of Events

The fraternity group arrived in Nashville around 4:30 PM. By 4:55 PM, a video from Casa Rosa, a downtown establishment, captured Strain drinking a margarita. TABC (Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission) investigators reviewed footage that showed Strain being served three times; however, they noted that there were no visible signs of drunkenness when he was served.

It remains unclear how Strain managed to consume 12 to 15 drinks or what specific drinks were involved. The police’s estimate mostly relied on accounts from Strain’s fraternity brothers.

As the night progressed, Strain started to show signs of intoxication. Video footage revealed that he was capable of standing and conversing earlier in the evening. However, by around 8:40 PM, fraternity members noted that he was stumbling. Post arguing with staff, security escorted him out of Luke 32’s Bridge at approximately 9:38 PM.

Concern Among Peers

After Strain was ejected, a fraternity brother reached him via phone around 9:47 PM. The brother reported that Strain was slurring his words and indicated he was heading back to the hotel. Nevertheless, when members checked the next morning around 1:00 AM, Strain was not in his hotel room and was unresponsive to calls.

It wasn’t until 1:46 PM the following day that Strain’s fraternity brothers officially reported him missing to the police.

Responsibility and Follow-Up

The incident has sparked conversations around the accountability of both the individual and the fraternity system. While Riley Strain was an adult and made his own choices, questions have arisen regarding the role that fraternity events play in encouraging excessive drinking. Easlick emphasizes that the fraternity’s rules are in place for risk management and should be taken seriously.

Following these findings, WSMV4 Investigates sought comments from both the national chapter of Delta Chi and the University of Missouri. Delta Chi released a statement expressing their sorrow over Strain’s death but declined further interviews. The University of Missouri reiterated that the fraternity’s formal gathering was a private event and confirmed that there were no current conduct violations against Delta Chi.

Lasting Impact and Reflection

For the family of Riley Strain, this tragedy has led them to seek answers and accountability. As investigations continue, they have shared the police’s findings with their attorney for deeper analysis. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and the complexities surrounding fraternity culture.

As communities discuss how to prevent similar occurrences in the future, it’s essential for parents and students to understand the reality of alcohol use in college life and the often hidden pressures that come with it.