A Mississippi grand jury has unanimously concluded that there is not enough evidence to file criminal charges in the case of Nolan Wells’ death. This was announced by the Jackson County District Attorney’s office on Monday night.
The grand jury issued a “no true bill” after reviewing 132 subpoenas and listening to testimony from 43 witnesses. Their report indicates that the position of, condition of, time of discovery, and location
of Wells’ body were consistent with drowning.
An earlier independent autopsy had not conclusively determined the cause and manner of death, pending further investigation. Authorities had previously suggested that Wells may have drowned.
The report also noted that Wells had a bruise on the back of his head. However, this injury was not fatal. The grand jury did not find any evidence of fatal injuries or organic disease. Additionally, the grand jury discovered that Wells did not have cocaine in his system at the time of his death, nor was there any evidence to suggest he ever used the drug.
Following the announcement, District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath expressed that Wells’ death has been a significant blow to the community. “There is absolutely no evidence to support the allegations that Nolan’s death and disappearance were racially motivated,” McIlrath said in a video statement.
The decision comes after continued scrutiny over the circumstances of Wells’ disappearance and death. On July 4, Wells, 18, had traveled with friends by boat to Horn Island to celebrate Independence Day. This barrier island is roughly 10 miles off the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Investigators reported that Wells was last seen around 3 p.m. on the island. He did not return to the mainland with his group, who traveled to and from the island on three boats: the Triton, the Palm Beach, and the Tideline.
The grand jury found that Wells chose to stay on Horn Island on the afternoon of July 4 after the Triton, Palm Beach, and Tideline departed. Others remained on the island to socialize as well. No credible evidence was found implicating anyone who traveled to or from Horn Island that day in any criminal conduct related to Wells’ death.
A search involving local and state agencies, the Coast Guard, first responders, and the United Cajun Navy was conducted. Wells’ body was discovered on July 6 on the northwestern tip of Horn Island by a U.S. park ranger.
The Wells family had questioned the circumstances of Nolan’s disappearance and death, advocating for an independent investigation. They hired attorney Ben Crump, who described Wells as a cherished son, teammate, and friend. Crump highlighted the family’s need for answers and emphasized the importance of uncovering the full truth about what transpired on Horn Island.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office sought video and photographs from Horn Island, particularly any footage that captured alleged altercations. Social media posts and videos depicted a number of people and boats on the island, but authorities had not confirmed any dispute. Sheriff John Ledbetter stated that investigators were aware of the video and were investigating.
Newsweek contacted Crump through email late Monday night for further comment.