The University of Missouri student Riley Strain's autopsy result has now been revealed, answering questions about his sudden and mysterious death in Tennessee.
The autopsy report has revealed that his death was due to drowning and severe alcohol intoxication. This autopsy report, released on June 18, provides pivotal details about the woeful circumstances that led to his demise and concludes the two-week hunt that gripped public attention earlier this time.
The Mysterious Disappearance
Riley Strain, a 22-year-old senior student at the University of Missouri, went missing in early March after a night out with his fraternity brothers in Nashville, Tennessee.
Strain was last seen on March 8 at Luke Bryan's bar, Luke's 32 Ground Food Drink. Surveillance footage revealed that Strain was out of the establishment around 9:30 p.m. He was reported missing shortly later, sparking a wide-ranging hunt. On March 22, Strain's body was discovered face down in debris near the Cumberland River.
Assistant Medical Examiner Gulpreet Singh Bowman verified in the autopsy report that Riley Strain died from drowning and ethanol intoxication. "Riley Strain, a 22-year-old, failed as a result of drowning and ethanol intoxication," Bowman wrote.
The report also noted that there were no signs of external trauma on Strain's body.
Ethanol intoxication, generally referred to as alcohol poisoning, occurs when a person consumes a large volume of alcohol in a short period, oppressively affecting vital fleshly functions such as breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and gag reflex.
The toxicology report revealed Strain's blood alcohol position at the time of his death was .228%.
Investigative Responses
Upon the death of the University of Missouri student, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) began an investigation to figure out if Strain was overserving alcohol at Luke Bryan's bar.
In Tennessee, it is illegal for establishments to continuously serve alcoholic beverages to customers who are showing signs of alcohol intoxication. This law could result in a serious violation that could have legal consequences for the establishment.
However, ABC communication director Aaron Rummage, stated that there are no specific rules or laws that mandate these bars and establishments alike to escort out intoxicated patrons from their businesses or provide support in getting someone home. The TABC has opened a disquisition into this matter to see if any violations have occurred.
Furthermore, the TC Restaurant Group, which oversees Luke's 32 Bridge, stated that during Riley's visit, he bought and was served one alcoholic drink and two glasses of water.
The bar's security crew decided to accompany Strain out of the venue due to conduct standards. Strain was followed downstairs by a member of his party, who ultimately returned upstairs without him.
Family and Community Response
Strain's family expressed their gratitude to those who supported the search during a press conference held the day his body was found.
Strain's stepfather stated that they were thankful for everything everyone has done for their family. He added that the grace that other people have given them means a lot.
Strain's mother, Michelle Whiteid, also expressed her gratitude and prompted other parents to cherish their children. " I just ask that you mothers out there clinch your babies tight tonight, please, for me, " she said.
In May, nearly two months after Strain's body was found, his parents and stepparents attended the University of Missouri's graduation ceremony to accept his diploma.
Strain's name was the first to be called, and the audience stood in applause and support as his family received his diploma on his behalf.
