The grand jury concluded that Nolan Wells’ death was likely due to drowning and found no indications of foul play, according to their examination of the autopsy and related evidence in this widely covered case.
The Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the cause and manner of death for the 18-year-old remained undetermined, which aligned with an independent autopsy commissioned by Wells’ family.
In the report submitted on Friday in Jackson County, it stated that the circumstances surrounding the discovery of Mr. Wells’ body—including its position, condition, and location—suggested drowning.
The grand jury additionally reported that there was no evidence of a crime connected to Wells’ death.
“There was bruising on the back of Mr. Wells’ head, but it was not a fatal injury. The Grand Jury did not find any signs of fatal injury or any underlying disease affecting Mr. Wells,” the report highlighted.
Wells, who was Black, passed away after a trip to Horn Island—located 10 miles off the Gulf Coast of Mississippi—with friends on July 4.
After experiencing mechanical issues, his friends took their boat back to the mainland, while Wells opted to remain on the island.
His body was found in the water near the island on July 6.
District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath stated on Monday that there was no evidence to suggest that the circumstances of Nolan’s death or disappearance were racially charged. “Nolan’s friends cared for him deeply, and he felt the same,” she affirmed, adding that he made the choice to stay on the island that day, with no evidence to dispute that.
This story is still developing, so please check back for further updates.
