I don't think so.
The fact that these kids were all drunk cannot be a mere coincidence. And the majority of these kids were in shape--we're talking basketball and football players here. Big guys.
As a "big guy" myself, I've found most people don't want to mess with 'em when they're sober as a judge--let alone loaded.
Quite frankly, there is no other logical reason. Anything else just spreads FUD.
As for people being gone for hours, it's common practice to go out for the evening. Bar hookups and dropoffs happen all the time (seen 'em happen in tiny lil Menomonie) and groups get separated.
Well, just make sure you don't drink too much and stay away from the river, LOL! I'd hate to see you become a statistic.
I still think there's more to this. But, I read a lot of murder mysteries. ;)