A Mississippi grand jury has declared there is no evidence of criminal wrongdoing in the death of Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-year-old Black teenager who died during a boating trip on July 4.
The case has raised concerns about whether Mississippi authorities conducted a thorough investigation. However, after reviewing the circumstances, 23 grand jurors in Jackson County reached a unanimous decision.
The grand jury’s report found that Wells “was not in any physical altercation or argument” while visiting Horn Island. Additionally, it was determined that Wells “chose to remain” on the barrier island after the boat he arrived on departed.
Wells’ death has drawn significant attention and scrutiny, with many advocating for a deeper probe into the incident. The findings by the grand jury may provide some closure, but discussions about the investigation process are likely to continue.