Michelle Whiteid Reveals Last Texts from Son Riley Strain Before Tragic Passing
Michelle Whiteid, mother of Riley Strain, opens up about the final text messages exchanged with her son before his untimely passing
Riley Strains Family Has 2nd Autopsy Completed After Preliminary Report Says Death Was Accidental
Riley Strain Metropolitan Nashville Police Department/Facebook
Riley Strain’s mom, Michelle Whiteid, shared the final text messages she exchanged with her son before his passing last month.
During an interview with NewsNation on Tuesday, April 16, Whiteid recalled the conversation. Riley had messaged her saying he was drinking a rum and coke that didn't taste good. She advised him not to drink it if it didn't taste good. Riley then described the taste as barbecue, to which Whiteid responded that it sounded awful. Riley insisted it sounded good, but in reality, it wasn't.
Whiteid admitted that she suspected something may have been added to her rum and coke, which usually has a consistent taste, that could be linked to her son's death. She expressed her concern that there might have been an unauthorized substance in the cocktail.
Strain disappeared on March 8 after being spotted at a restaurant in Nashville. He was out with his fraternity brothers from Delta Chi for their University of Missouri spring formal. Security footage captured him leaving the restaurant alone and walking away from his hotel.
More security footage revealed that Strain walked with a homeless man and talked to a police officer around 9:52 p.m. on the night he went missing. Body cam footage showed this interaction.
Strain’s body was discovered in the Cumberland River, eight miles away from downtown Nashville, on March 22. The Metro Nashville Police Department stated that his death seemed to be accidental, with no signs of foul play. He was only 22 years old.
Days after the initial ruling of his death as an accident, Strain's family decided to request a second autopsy. This decision came about after the coroner discovered that there was no water present in his lungs.
According to a family friend, Chris Dingman, the family was taken aback when the coroner publicly mentioned the absence of water in Strain's lungs during an interview in Nashville. This revelation raised more questions for them. While Dingman admitted he was not someone who typically watches crime dramas, he pointed out that the presence of water in the lungs usually indicates that the individual was still alive when they entered the water.
He mentioned that the family is in need of more answers.
Although the autopsy results are not yet available, a Celebration of Life funeral service was held for Strain in his hometown of Springfield, Missouri on March 29. Attendees were encouraged to wear green in honor of one of Strain's favorite phrases, "Green makes you look good." His favorite songs, such as Zach Bryan's "Something in the Orange," were played during the service. A private burial is scheduled to take place at a later date, as reported by ABC.
Riley loved outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and relaxing by the lake. He was also passionate about tennis and was starting to explore Jiujitsu. Most of all, Riley treasured moments spent with his family, making unforgettable memories.
In the obituary, it was mentioned that Riley's competitive spirit and love for life will be dearly missed. However, his positive attitude and ability to bring happiness to others will always be remembered.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic story of Riley Strain highlights the importance of vigilance and awareness when it comes to substance use. His mother's suspicions that an unauthorized substance may have been added to his drink serve as a reminder that even seemingly innocuous beverages can pose risks. The absence of water in Strain's lungs during the initial autopsy raises further questions about the circumstances surrounding his death, underscoring the need for thorough investigations and a second autopsy to provide clarity for the family.
Strain's life, cut short at the age of 22, was filled with promise and passion. His love for outdoor activities, tennis, and Jiu-Jitsu, as well as his cherished moments with family, paint a picture of a vibrant young man who left an enduring mark on those who knew him. His competitive spirit and ability to bring happiness to others will continue to inspire those who remember him.
