READ: Family identifies body found on Horn Island as 18-year-old Nolan Wells
Tuesday, July 7
Just before 2 p.m., WLOX learned Wells’ family has retained nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump, calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into how Wells died.
“Attorney Crump and the legal team will conduct an independent review of the circumstances of Nolan’s death and will press for the timely release of all records, witness accounts, and autopsy findings,” a press release by Ben Crump read.
Around 2 p.m. Tuesday, Coroner Bruce Lynd confirmed to WLOX News that the body found was Wells, according to dental records.
Just after 3:30 p.m., JCSO issued a press release, asking anyone with original photos, videos, or eyewitness accounts related to Nolan Wells or any “unusual activity” from Horn Island on July 4 to contact them at 228-769-3065 during regular business hours, or 228-769-3063 after hours.
Tuesday at 9:15 p.m., the mother of one of the boys believed to be at the island with Wells made a Facebook post, saying that her family is grieving with Wells’ family, and that she wanted to make a post to “dispel some rumors with facts.”
Ashlee Cole, a Chancery Judge in Jackson County, said she did initially deactivate her Facebook account due to fearing for the safety of herself and her family.
“We do not believe it is appropriate for our minor children’s photographs to be circulated throughout the Internet, presenting potential threats to their safety,” Cole said.
Cole said she graduated high school with Wells’ mother and that they are “from the same community.”
“I have the utmost respect for her and all of the Wells family,” Cole said. “We mourn the loss of Nolan with them. Our prayers have been and will continue to be with them.”
Cole also said her son last saw Wells around 3 p.m. on July 4, before leaving the island at 4:30 when the boat they were on started having issues.
“Nolan made a decision to stay on the island and return inland later with another group of friends,” Cole’s post read.
Cole said her son has fully cooperated with law enforcement.
What’s next in the investigation?
Sheriff Ledbetter said the investigation is active but asked the public to allow time for the case to develop and the family to grieve following the news of Wells’ death.
“Number one, give the family space and time. They are still processing this tragic event, and all of Nolan’s close friends. And we’re still waiting for 100% confirmation,” Sheriff Ledbetter said. “I’ll assure you that the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, we’re looking at this whole case just like we would any other case. And we’re going to be as thorough as we can.”
Investigators told Good Morning America they suspect that Wells drowned, but they are still interviewing friends who were with him, as they work to pinpoint what exactly happened.
“That’s why we’re still asking for information, if anybody has anything, any knowledge,” Sheriff Ledbetter told GMA.
If you have any information, contact JCSO at 228-769-3063.
Ledbetter said there is currently no indication of drug or alcohol use, but the coroner would have more information following the investigation and toxicology report.
We will update you on air and online as new information becomes available.
Former high school, college release statements following news of Wells’ death
Wells played football at Ocean Springs High School and Southwest Mississippi Community College.
“We are devastated by Nolan’s passing,” said Jake Bramlett, Ocean Springs head football coach. “He was the kind of son, teammate, friend and student that every coach hopes to have in a program… Nolan was so much more than an outstanding football player. He carried himself with humility, treated others with respect, worked hard and led by example. His character spoke louder than his accomplishments, and he was loved deeply by his teammates and coaches. Our football family is grieving alongside Nolan’s parents, family, friends, classmates, teammates and all who loved him.”
“Nolan was a remarkable student, teammate and brother,” said Ocean Springs High School Principal Dr. Jacob Dykes. “He will be remembered as an extremely kind and hardworking young man who left a lasting impression on his teachers, coaches, teammates and community. Our thoughts are with his family and the many people he made a lasting impact on around him.”
“The entire Southwest family is heartbroken as we mourn the tragic loss of Nolan Wells,” said Southwest Mississippi CC President Dr. J. Steven Bishop. “We remember Nolan as a well-respected young man who was very popular among friends, faculty, and staff. We loved Nolan, and he will be greatly missed in many ways. Our continued prayers will be with the Wells family now and in the days to come. Professional counselors and local ministers will be available to assist teammates and friends as they return to campus [Monday]. May God lead and guide all involved during this difficult time.”
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