Family of teen found dead after boat trip calls for probe with attorney Ben Crump

The family of Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-year-old Black college student from Mississippi, is demanding greater transparency in the investigation into his death. Wells was found dead on July 10, 2026, after a July 4 boat trip with friends to Horn Island. His body was discovered early Monday morning, more than a day after he failed to return with his companions.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump and the Rev. Al Sharpton are expected to join the family at a news conference to call for a thorough probe. Crump, who is representing the family, has stated their concerns about the ongoing investigation and announced plans for an independent autopsy. The family has reportedly seen video of a fight involving their son, and questions his death given his athletic ability.

The Jackson County Sheriff's Office has asked for public assistance, seeking witnesses and video from the popular island destination to shed light on the events leading up to Wells' disappearance. While officials have stated they do not suspect foul play, the case has generated significant online speculation, fueled by discussions about racial tensions and the experiences of Black individuals in majority-white spaces.

Wells, an elite athlete and wide receiver at Southwest Mississippi Community College, was set to turn 19 next month. His death is the second case in Mississippi in recent months that Crump has taken on, following his involvement with the family of a 1-year-old killed in a police shooting.

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We will not rest until every fact about what happened to Nolan on Horn Island is brought into the light, and we call on investigators to pursue this case with the urgency and transparency this family deserves.