‘Mourning a Tiger’: Mizzou speaks out after recovery of missing student’s body in Nashville

“As the Mizzou community mourns Riley, we are keeping his family in our thoughts and offering support.”
The body of University of Missouri student Riley Strain was recovered Friday from the Cumberland River.
Published: Mar. 22, 2024 at 2:39 PM CDT
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - University of Missouri (UM) student Riley Strain’s body was found Friday morning after two weeks of law enforcement and volunteers searching for him.

The university sent out a statement to its students on the loss of Strain.

“I write to you with a heavy heart with the news that the search for UM student Riley Strain has ended tragically,” said Mizzou President Mun Y. Choi. “After an exhaustive search by authorities and volunteers, Riley’s body was recovered today in Nashville, Tenn., where he had traveled to attend his fraternity’s spring formal event.”

The university said they would assist students with the loss at the university’s counseling center as well as the Employee Assistance Program.

“As the Mizzou community mourns Riley, we are keeping his family in our thoughts and offering support,” Choi said.

Strain was found eight miles down the Cumberland River from where he was last seen. Authorities said they do not suspect foul play in his disappearance or his death.

Strain’s Fraternity, Delta Chi also released a statement:

“The Delta Chi Fraternity is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our esteemed fraternity brother, Riley Strain. Our hearts go out to Riley’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time as we work to provide support and resources to all those affected by this tragedy.

The Fraternity’s Campus Assistance Program, which provides in-person resources and professional support, is available to our members 24/7 as they navigate through this challenging time. Additionally, we are working closely with University of Missouri authorities to ensure our local chapter members have direct access to campus support resources.

We ask for respect and privacy for Riley’s family and our Fraternity brothers during this incredibly difficult time.”