The FBI is investigating threats made against public officials, witnesses, and the family of Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old whose death after a July 4 boating trip has drawn national attention, according to Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. Tindell stated that these threats are being taken "very, very seriously."
Wells disappeared on July 4 while on a boat trip with friends to Horn Island, a barrier island off Mississippi's Gulf Coast. His remains were discovered on the island two days later by a National Park Service ranger.
Tindell indicated that "false information" circulating about Wells' death has fueled anger and led to a significant increase in calls to his office, some containing direct threats. He also stated that Wells' mother, Christine Wonsley, has reportedly received threats.
The involvement of the FBI in investigating these threats comes as political figures weigh in on the case. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has publicly blamed attorney Ben Crump and Rev. Al Sharpton for inciting the threats, accusing them of "stoking division for personal gain." Reeves asserted that state law enforcement and the State Medical Examiner are conducting a thorough investigation and expressed confidence in their findings.
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch echoed this sentiment, stating that her office will hold accountable anyone who threatens law enforcement or prosecutors involved in the case. "Efforts to intimidate, disrupt, or interfere with the work of our law enforcement and prosecutors and threats to their well-being will be taken seriously and we will hold those who make them accountable," Fitch said.
This public commentary follows statements from U.S. Rep. André Carson, D-Ind., who accused Mississippi officials of lacking transparency in the investigation. Carson pointed to the retention of some of Wells' body parts by Mississippi officials as a factor contributing to unanswered questions, particularly after an independent autopsy was performed.
During a recent press conference, attorney Ben Crump noted that an area of "red discoloration" was found on Wells' head. However, he stated that Dr. Roger Mitchell, who conducted the independent autopsy, could not determine a cause or manner of death pending further investigation. An official autopsy has not yet been completed.
Authorities believe Wells chose to remain on Horn Island after his friends returned to the mainland on July 4. His mother reported him missing later that night after learning of his disappearance from one of Wells' friends.