The 18-year-old student-athlete disappeared during a Fourth of July boating trip to Mississippi’s Horn Island.
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. — The family of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells is calling for a full investigation after the Mississippi student-athlete was found dead on Horn Island two days after disappearing during a Fourth of July boating trip with friends.
Wells was last seen at about 3 p.m. July 4 on the barrier island off Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. A search involving local authorities, park personnel, the U.S. Coast Guard and volunteers began after his mother reported him missing. A park ranger found his body on the island July 6.
The circumstances surrounding Wells’ final hours remain unclear. Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter said initial information indicated Wells traveled to the island with friends and remained there when the others left. Wells’ parents have questioned that account and said they do not understand why their son was left without his phone, keys or a confirmed ride home.
Authorities have said they have not found immediate evidence of foul play. However, the investigation remains active, and officials have asked anyone with photographs, videos or other information from Horn Island on July 4 to contact the Sheriff’s Department. A final cause and manner of death had not been publicly announced.
Wells’ parents, Christine Wonsley and Elmore Wonsley, have retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump. During public appearances, the family said conflicting accounts about what happened on the island have made them question the initial version of events. They are seeking a clear timeline showing where Wells was, who was with him and how he became separated from the group.
The family has also raised questions about Wells’ cellphone and keys, which reportedly left the island with other members of the group. Crump said the family wants investigators to review communications, videos and witness accounts to determine whether any information was deleted or withheld. Authorities have not publicly accused Wells’ companions of a crime.
A video circulating online reportedly shows Wells involved in a tense exchange before he disappeared. Ledbetter said investigators were aware of video connected to the case and were seeking additional material from witnesses. The available footage has not established what happened after Wells was last seen, and portions of the online discussion remain unverified.
Wells’ parents have arranged an independent autopsy in addition to the official medical examination. Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick is helping cover the cost of the private review, according to reports and statements from the family’s representatives. Results from the official and independent examinations had not been released.
Wells was an Ocean Springs High School graduate and a football player who had been preparing to continue his education and athletic career. His family described him as sociable, caring and protective of others. Friends, former teammates and community members have shared tributes while calling for a thorough inquiry into his death.
The case has drawn national attention as Wells’ parents press authorities for greater transparency. The family has said it does not want rumors or threats directed at anyone connected to the trip and has urged people with firsthand information to provide it to investigators.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department continues to gather evidence and interview people associated with the July 4 outing. No criminal charges had been announced, and investigators had not reached a final conclusion about how Wells died.
Author note: Last updated July 11, 2026.