Riley Strain, a 22-year-old student from the University of Missouri, tragically went missing after being ejected from a downtown Nashville bar during a weekend trip. His body was later discovered in the Cumberland River in West Nashville on March 22, several miles from where he was last seen.

According to the medical examiner’s office, Riley Strain’s death was attributed to accidental drowning and alcohol poisoning. His blood alcohol level was found to be 0.228, significantly exceeding the legal driving limit. Additionally, the autopsy detected Delta-9 THC, a compound found in cannabis, in his system.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, in conjunction with the autopsy findings, confirmed that Riley had consumed multiple alcoholic beverages at various locations in Nashville on the evening of March 8. He became separated from his friends and was visibly impaired as he traversed near Gay Street, close to the Cumberland River. Due to his unfamiliarity with the area and the darkness of the night, Riley reportedly stumbled into an overgrown area and fell down a steep embankment into the river. Recent heavy rains had caused the river to rise and flow swiftly.

The police have officially classified Riley Strain’s death as accidental, aligning with their initial conclusions from the missing person investigation.

In their statement, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department expressed sincere condolences to Riley Strain’s family and friends.

This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and navigating unfamiliar surroundings, particularly in an unfamiliar city.