In a tragic turn of events, 22-year-old University of Missouri student Riley Strain, who made headlines after disappearing in March, was found dead in the Cumberland River outside of Nashville, Tennessee. The completed autopsy, released on Tuesday, revealed that Strain died as a result of drowning and ethanol intoxication, indicating evidence of heavy drinking.

Assistant Medical Examiner Gulpreet Singh Bowman's report confirmed the initial findings by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, stating that Strain's death appeared to be accidental with no signs of foul play-related trauma. The autopsy revealed that Strain was discovered floating face down in the river, wearing specific clothing items including a tan and black short sleeve shirt, blue plaid undershorts, and black socks.

Further examination of Strain's personal belongings disclosed that he had a blue watch on his left wrist, along with two necklaces; one white metal and the other yellow metal with a pendant. Notably, all of his clothing was covered in a dense film of dark mud, except his pants, for which no explanation was provided in the autopsy report.

The investigation determined that Strain was last seen alone at the James Robertson Parkway Bridge underpass on March 8, 2024. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance became more puzzling when videos released by the police depicted Strain stumbling around the downtown area after leaving Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink, where he had been asked to leave earlier that evening.

Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink stated that Strain had been served one alcoholic drink and two waters before being escorted out by security. Strain had reportedly told his friends that he would return to his hotel, but for unknown reasons, he never made it back. In the weeks following his disappearance, Strain's bank card was found between Gay Street and the river.

The search for Strain came to a tragic end when his body was spotted by a worker at a business in West Nashville, two weeks after he vanished. The medical examiner's office was able to identify him promptly due to the presence of his shirt and other identifiable objects on his body.

Authorities have reached out to Strain's stepfather, Chris Whiteid, for comment on the autopsy results. The details surrounding Strain's final moments and what led to his tragic death continue to raise questions, leaving his loved ones and the community seeking closure and answers.

As the investigation into Riley Strain's untimely death progresses, it serves as a somber reminder of the risks and consequences associated with excessive alcohol consumption and the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in vulnerable situations.