Nolan Wells’ family seeks federal probe after grand jury declined to indict anyone for his death

The family of 18-year-old Black man Nolan Wells has called for a federal investigation into his death after a grand jury declined to indict anyone. Wells' body was found on a Mississippi barrier island, Horn Island, on July 6, following a Fourth of July trip with friends.

Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath stated there was no evidence to suggest the teen's disappearance and death were racially motivated. However, Wells' family disagreed with the grand jury's conclusion, arguing they did not receive answers about what transpired.

Civil rights advocates and attorney Ben Crump have urged authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation and provide transparency regarding the case. The incident, which initially stemmed from a local investigation, has drawn attention due to questions about the attention given to cases involving Black victims.

Nolan Wells' father, Elmore Wonsley, stated that their son was found on federal land and requested that the FBI take the lead on a full investigation. Florida Representative Frederica Wilson, a Democrat, had earlier called for the National Park Service to investigate Wells' death, as the island is overseen by the National Park Service.