New details released in Nolan Wells case; businesses support family through donations
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WXXV) — New developments have been made in the case of Nolan Wells, as the 18-year-old Ocean Springs teen was confirmed to have been found dead on Horn Island two days after he went missing on the 4th of July. His family is now taking steps to seek answers.
According to Jackson County Coroner Bruce Lynd Jr., the body discovered on the island was positively identified as Wells through dental records. His cause of death has not yet been released, as we are still awaiting the results of the autopsy.
As new information continues to emerge in the case, Wells’ family has reportedly hired high-profile civil rights attorney Ben Crump as they seek answers in his death.
In a press release, Crump says the family is calling for a “thorough and transparent investigation,” and notes that his legal team will conduct an independent review of the situation.
Crump says the family deserves “answers” and “the truth,” and urges investigators to pursue the case with, “urgency and transparency.”
Meanwhile, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to seek out eyewitness accounts to help them piece together the timeline surrounding Nolan Wells’ death.
They are asking anyone who was on Horn Island on the 4th of July, and might have any first-hand information regarding Nolan, including sightings of him, reports of any arguments or unusual activity, and original, unedited photos or videos taken on the island – especially near the northwest tip, to contact investigators.
They also ask that everyone refrain from spreading unverified information that could hinder investigative efforts. Call the Jackson County Criminal Investigations Division at 228-769-3065 if you have any information.
While the community is awaiting additional details, some businesses have extended a helping hand to the Wells family.
The Scoop ice cream shop in Biloxi says that until the end of business of July 12, they will be donating 10% of all sales to the family to offer their love and support.
Plus, all three locations of Indian Delight, including their ocean springs restaurant, will be donating 5% of their total sales from Thursday-Saturday to the Gofundme account organized for the wells family.
That Gofundme fundraiser has already raised over $150,000 in just 24 hours thanks to an incredible outpouring of community support.
This is still an active and ongoing investigation. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
