Civil rights leader Al Sharpton and filmmaker Tyler Perry have jointly offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the drowning death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells. The announcement came during a funeral service for Wells, a high school football player who was found dead on Horn Island, Mississippi, on July 5.
Wells was last seen on July 4 during a boating trip with friends. Authorities stated that he allegedly stayed behind on the island while his companions returned to the mainland. His mother filed a missing person report the following day, and his body was discovered shortly after. Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter indicated that authorities do not suspect foul play and believe Wells may have chosen to remain on the island. The preliminary cause of death is believed to be drowning, though an official cause has not yet been released.
Wells' family has expressed concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death and is calling for a comprehensive investigation. During the funeral, Sharpton pledged $50,000 of the reward, emphasizing the need for truth and transparency. He was soon joined by Tyler Perry, who matched the donation, bringing the total reward to $100,000.
"We just want the truth. That's all. We just want the truth, and we want to thank Tyler Perry," Sharpton stated during the service. He urged anyone with information to come forward, noting that the reward is contingent on information leading to an arrest and conviction.
The family has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump, known for his work in high-profile cases. Crump has shared social media posts suggesting a potentially flawed timeline of events, including an unverified image allegedly showing Wells at a pool party after he was reportedly last seen.
Christine Wonsley, Wells' mother, described her son as someone who had a talent for making others feel seen and valued. Audio recordings from the 911 calls made by Wells' friends indicate they were experiencing boat trouble and sinking shortly before his disappearance.
