Family Sues Delta Chi Fraternity Over Student's Drowning Death

Riley Strain's parents allege negligence, policy violations, and a culture of abandonment contributed to his March 2024 death in Nashville.

The wrongful death lawsuit, filed in Boone County Circuit Court, accuses Delta Chi fraternity of negligence in Riley Strain's drowning death during a fraternity trip to Nashville.
Strain, 22, was found in the Cumberland River with a blood alcohol level of .228, more than twice the legal driving limit, and his death was ruled accidental by an autopsy.
The lawsuit claims fraternity members encouraged Strain to drink excessively, failed to assist him when he was visibly intoxicated, and delayed notifying authorities after he went missing.
Delta Chi is also accused of violating its own risk management policy by allowing alcohol above 15% ABV at the event and failing to provide adequate supervision and transportation.
Strain's family seeks damages and aims to highlight systemic issues within Greek life, including unsafe practices and a culture of abandonment.