Riley Strain's Parents Tearfully Accept Their Tragic Son's Mizzou Diploma In His Honor

Riley Strain was discovered in the Cumberland River, two weeks after he disappeared. (Photo : Metro Nashville Police)

The parents of Riley Strain tearfully accepted their late son's diploma at the University of Missouri over the weekend.

During the College of Arts & Sciences graduation, the university presented the 22-year-old's grieving family with his degree, according to WIBW-TV.

His parents and step-parents received his diploma during the emotional commencement ceremony and were met with a standing ovation.

Strain, who vanished from Luke's 32 Bridge downtown Nashville bar after he was kicked out March 8, was set to graduate Saturday.

His body was discovered in the Cumberland River, two weeks after he disappeared. His pants, wallet, and cowboy boots were missing.

A preliminary autopsy report found that Strain died of accidental causes, however his family ordered a second autopsy, after it was determined he showed no signs of water in his lungs, which is typically expected in accidental drowning incidents.

Last week, the Davidson County Medical Examiner's Office announced it completed Strain's toxicology report, which will be released with the complete autopsy. It's unclear when the documents will be made publicly available.