GoFundMe launched after death of Mississippi teen Nolan Xavier Wells

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. — Loved ones of 18‑year‑old Nolan Xavier Wells has launched an official GoFundMe campaign after authorities found the beloved Mississippi teen dead near Horn Island following an extensive multi‑agency search over the Fourth of July weekend.

Donations quickly surpassed $100,000 at the time of this report and continue to surge.

“This is the OFFICIAL and ONLY GoFundMe account,” Wonsley wrote on Facebook. She said the family is “broken beyond words” and deeply grateful for the community’s support.

The fundraiser describes Wells as a beloved son, brother and friend remembered for his kindness, bright smile and ability to “spark up a whole room.”

Body Found After Extensive Search

According to WLOX, Wells disappeared on July 4 while boating with a group to Horn Island, Mississippi. The group returned but Wells didn’t. His absence triggered a large search effort involving the United Cajun Navy, local law enforcement, first responders and the U.S. Coast Guard. A U.S. Park Service ranger discovered a body matching Wells’ description on July 6, and his family later confirmed his death on social media.

Community Mourns Nolan Xavier Wells

Friends and relatives said Wells was kind, easygoing and able to calm tense moments. One friend told the Sun Herald that Wells “could spark up a whole room.”

Wells played wide receiver at Southwest Mississippi Community College after graduating from Ocean Springs High School. Ocean Springs head football coach Jake Bramlett told WLOX that Wells was “so much more than an outstanding football player,” adding that he carried himself with grace, humility and respect.

Ongoing Investigation: Family Hires Attorney Ben Crump

The family announced they have hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump to demand a full probe into the death of Wells.

Earlier this week, Crump told ABC News Live that Wells’ body will be flown to Washington D.C for an independent autopsy.

Meanwhile, Mississippi authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding Wells’ death.

The Mississippi state medical examiner performed an autopsy on Tuesday, but it could take weeks to receive the results, which include a toxicology report.

Officials said they will release additional information once the coroner completes the final report.