Nolan Wells family vows to keep seeking answers after grand jury report

Nolan Wells’ family said they will “never stop” seeking answers after a Jackson County grand jury declined to file criminal charges in the 18‑year‑old’s July 4 death. The grand jury issued a “no true bill,” saying the evidence did not support charges against anyone who traveled with Wells to Horn Island.

Nolan Wells’ Mother Says Grand Jury Report Lacked Transparency

Christine Wells‑Wonsley criticized the report during a news conference Tuesday, Sept. 22. She said the document offered few explanations and failed to address key autopsy findings.

She also said District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath texted her minutes before releasing the report on Facebook, which she described as “a lack of empathy.”

Attorneys Call for Continued Investigation

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump said the grand jury’s findings left “more questions than answers.” He argued the investigation must continue until the cause of Wells’ death is clear. Crump said the family will “never stop” pushing for truth, transparency and accountability.

Autopsy Results Raise Concerns

Both the Mississippi State Medical Examiner and an independent forensic pathologist funded by Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights Initiative ruled the manner of death undetermined. The independent autopsy documented blunt‑force injuries to Wells’ head and back.

However, investigators said the evidence did not establish a definitive cause of death.

Grand Jury Cites Insufficient Evidence

The grand jury reviewed 132 subpoenas, 43 witnesses, cell phone data, GPS records, photographs and video, according to the redacted report released on Facebook.

It found no evidence of criminal conduct and rejected claims circulating online about racial targeting or assault.

Community Pressure Continues

Wells disappeared during a July 4 trip with friends. His body was found two days later on Horn Island.

Although the grand jury declined charges, the family said the ruling does not resolve the case. They urged Mississippi officials to continue investigating and said federal authorities should intervene if necessary.

Wells’ parents said they will keep demanding answers until they understand what happened on Horn Island. They said the grand jury report reinforced their belief that the investigation was not thorough.

As Crump said at the news conference, the family intends to “never stop” seeking the truth.