Parents Fear Foul Play in Son's Drowning Death

An official state autopsy report for 18-year-old Nolan Wells has been completed, but its findings have not been released to his family.

The Mississippi State Medical Examiner conducted the autopsy on July 7, sending the results to the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. This development follows an independent autopsy commissioned by Wells' parents. That examination, performed by Dr. Roger J. Mitchell, stated that foul play could not be ruled out, although no fractures or deep tissue injuries were found.

Mitchell's report noted limitations, including lack of access to the body immediately after death and incomplete access to certain body parts. The family's attorney, Ben Crump, highlighted these issues, emphasizing the need for further investigation into the circumstances of Wells' drowning.

Wells, a student-athlete, went missing on July 4 after attending a party on Horn Island. His body was recovered two days later. While initial authorities suggested drowning due to dangerous rip currents, his parents, Christine and Elmore Wonsley, have challenged this, pointing to Mississippi's racial history and calling it a rush to judgment.

The Jackson County District Attorney's office confirmed a grand jury will review the case once the investigation concludes, as is standard for non-natural deaths. Despite facing hate mail and workplace harassment, Christine Wonsley stated the family's unwavering commitment to seeking answers for their son.