GULFPORT / JACKSON COUNTY, Miss. — The family of 18-year-old Nolan Wells pressed Friday for a full and transparent investigation into his death after his body was found two days following a July 4 boat trip to Horn Island. The case has drawn national attention, with civil rights attorney Ben Crump and the Rev. Al Sharpton standing with the family as they called for answers.
Family seeks outside review amid questions
Wells’ mother, Christine Wells-Wonsley, spoke at a news conference alongside Crump and other representatives, saying the family simply wants to know what happened and why their son did not return home. According to the family’s account, Wells went to Horn Island with three friends on July 4 and was reported missing thereafter. His body was recovered on July 6.
"We just want to know what happened and why our baby didn't come home," said Christine Wells-Wonsley.
Officials with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department have said investigators believe Wells drowned and that they do not suspect foul play. Still, Crump and members of his legal team described what they called “glaring contradictions” in witness statements — discrepancies about whether Wells remained on the island, why he did not have his phone, and how a young person who knew how to swim could have drowned.
What authorities are asking for
The sheriff’s office has actively sought public assistance, requesting unedited photos or videos from that day and any information about arguments, disturbances or other unusual activity on the island. The family has retained Ben Crump Law and said an independent autopsy is being conducted as part of their own investigation.
- Dates: Wells went missing after a July 4 boat trip; body recovered July 6.
- Age: 18 years old.
- Authorities: Jackson County Sheriff’s Department is investigating; officials say drowning is suspected and foul play is not suspected.
- Family action: Retained Ben Crump Law; pursuing independent autopsy.
The family’s attorneys say they have already begun their own investigation, reviewing witness accounts and other available evidence. Liza Park, a senior attorney with the Ben Crump team, told reporters she was alarmed when she first heard about the case and pointed to inconsistencies that, in her view, warrant further scrutiny.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Boat trip to Horn Island | July 4 |
| Wells reported missing / body recovered | July 6 |
Horn Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, is a popular destination for boaters and visitors. The sheriff’s office has encouraged anyone who was on or near the island that day or who may have photos or video to come forward. The office also asked for accounts of any arguments or unusual events while on the island.
This developing situation has drawn heightened attention because of the family’s public plea and involvement of national civil rights figures. The sheriff’s department’s statement that drowning is suspected is the current official position, but family representatives and their lawyers say outstanding inconsistencies require a deeper look.
As the investigation continues, the family is calling on authorities to be open with findings and to make all relevant evidence available. The combination of public interest, unresolved questions and the family’s determination to seek an independent review ensures this case will remain closely followed by residents across the coast and the state.
