Riley Strain, a college student who went missing and was later found drowned in the Cumberland River, was wearing a belt the night he vanished. The missing article of clothing, in combination with the fact that Strain was found wearing only his shirt and watch, has raised questions among his loved ones about the circumstances surrounding his death. Despite his belt being on, his cowboy boots, pants, and wallet have yet to be recovered from the river. The University of Missouri student’s body was found without any water in his lungs, as would be expected in drowning victims, leading to uncertainty about the cause of death.
Some of Strain’s family and friends believe that the fact he was wearing a belt the night he went missing should have prevented his pants from being ripped off in the water. The belt should have been snug on his hips due to his “swimmer’s body,” making it hard for his pants to come off, especially in the water or a strong current. This new information has prompted the family to question the official ruling of accidental drowning in Strain’s case. They have even gone as far as to order a private autopsy to gather more information on Strain’s cause of death.
Despite preliminary reports indicating that Strain’s death was accidental, investigators are reportedly looking into several persons of interest in the case. Strain’s family is having a hard time coming to terms with the idea that he may have accidentally drowned since he was known to be an excellent swimmer. The family continues to search for answers and closure, especially given the mysterious circumstances surrounding Strain’s disappearance and death.
Before Strain’s body was found, there were reports and sightings of him walking the streets of Nashville after being kicked out of a honky tonk bar. Surveillance footage showed him making a wrong turn toward the river, suggesting that he may have wandered in that direction accidentally. Additionally, a local homeless person saw a very intoxicated Strain nearly fall into the river, hinting at a different version of events leading up to his death. The family is hopeful that these witnesses and surveillance footage may provide more clues about Strain’s final moments.
A second private autopsy has been ordered by Strain’s family to gain more insight into the incident. They are looking for answers and are hopeful that individuals who may have witnessed Strain’s last moments could provide clarity. Additionally, the discovery of Strain’s bank card on an embankment near the river by two TikTokkers has further fueled the family’s determination to find out what happened to Strain that night. Overall, the family is seeking closure and is grateful to have found Strain but remains determined to uncover the truth about his death.
