University of Missouri student Riley Strain found dead in Nashville River

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department confirmed on Friday morning that the body of Riley Strain, a student from the University of Missouri, was found in the Cumberland River in Nashville. 

The 22-year-old student at the University of Missouri, went missing in Nashville on March 8th during a fraternity trip. His body was found in the Cumberland River on Friday morning after two weeks.

Police believe that Riley Strain may have accidentally fallen into the river as they found no signs of struggle on his body, and his belongings were still with him.  

Metropolitan Nashville Police Department Chief John Drake, addressing a news conference, said that "there is no other evidence that suggests anything other than" that the student Strain fell into the river. 

He said his body was found by workers at a company on the river shortly after 7am. "They removed something from the river and as they moved it they noticed Mr. Strain and called it in," Drake said.

Police will dispatch his body for an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death.

After the Riley went missing, police launched search with the help of helicopters, boats, and search crews on land. They intensified after his debit card was found near the river. 

Taking to the social media after Riley Strain's body was found, Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell vowed to "continue to work toward improvements in safety in a variety of ways."

"This is not the outcome that anyone hoped for – especially his parents and everyone who loved him," O'Connell said in  the message. 

Moreover, the University of Missouri is also offering counseling and support to students and staff impacted by this tragedy.