Riley Strain’s Family Accepts His College Diploma On His Behalf

Photo: WZTV Fox 17 News

At the University of Missouri’s graduation ceremony for the class of 2024, a bittersweet moment unfolded as Riley Strain’s family stepped onto the stage to accept his hard-earned college diploma on his behalf.

Riley, a 22-year-old student, had tragically gone missing in Nashville on March 8th, following an incident where he was kicked out of Luke Bryan’s Luke’s 32 Bridge during a visit with his college fraternity for their annual formal event.

Despite extensive efforts from local authorities, Riley’s family, and numerous volunteers, their search concluded with the heartbreaking discovery of his body in the Cumberland River, 8 miles from where he was last seen on March 22nd. The news shook his family and the wider community, which had rallied in support during the search.

Riley had been a dedicated student, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a minor in business. As his family approached the stage to receive his diploma, the room erupted into applause, offering a standing ovation to honor Riley’s memory.

Questions have swirled around Riley’s case since his disappearance. His family hoped to find answers through an autopsy, but they were dissatisfied with the examination conducted by a Nashville coroner. Opting for a second opinion, they hired their own coroner to perform a second autopsy. The findings of this examination have not been disclosed to the public.

Speculations have been swirling, especially after Riley’s mother revealed that he had texted her complaining that his drink tasted like barbecue. Some theories suggest he may have been drugged. The toxicology report will shed light on the level of alcohol in Riley’s system at the time of his death and whether any drugs were present.

Police have stated that there are no indications of foul play in Riley’s case. However, around the same time that the toxicology report was finalized, Riley’s family decided to seek legal assistance and retained the services of the well-known law firm, Morgan and Morgan, potentially hinting at the possibility of pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit.