Nolan Wells Family Disputes Drowning Findings, Reveals Final Text
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump released the last known message from the 18-year-old, who died after a July 4 boating trip, as the family questions the official conclusion.
The family of Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old college athlete who died after a July 4 boating trip, is questioning the official findings that his death was a drowning, according to their attorney Ben Crump. Crump revealed Wells' final text message, sent at approximately 8:30 p.m. on July 3, which read "Thank you" to his Auntie Gabby.
Wells went missing after attending an Independence Day boat party on Horn Island. His body was later found in the water. A grand jury recently concluded that Wells' death was "consistent with drowning" and found no evidence of criminal activity or a racially motivated crime.
Despite the grand jury's report, Wells' family maintains they are "fighting for justice" and do not believe their son "simply and accidentally" drowned. Crump stated that his examination of Wells' phone uncovered "282" Snapchat messages exchanged among the friend group on the day of his death.
The family has accused officials of attempting to close the case without uncovering the full truth. Crump has been vocal in advocating for the family, who believe the investigation into Wells' death has been insufficient. The circumstances surrounding the death of the Mississippi teenager continue to be a point of contention for his family and their legal representation.