Dr. Bernice King says Nolan Wells’ death mirrors Uncle A.D. King’s mysterious death

Dr. Bernice King has vocalized her support of Nolan Wells‘ family as they continue to seek answers into the 18-year-old’s death.

King Sees Painful Parallels Across Decades

King says the circumstances surrounding Nolan Wells’ death resemble the unsolved mysterious drowning of her uncle, Rev. A.D. King. In a Facebook post shared on Oct. 8, she noted both men were strong swimmers and showed head bruising with no water in their lungs. She called those details “painfully familiar” to her family’s experience.

King said her family has carried unanswered questions for 57 years. She wrote that Wells’ case echoes the same uncertainty that followed A.D. King’s death in 1969. He was found in his swimming pool with bruising and no water in his lungs, a detail that fueled decades of doubt.

Wells’ Autopsy Deepens Concerns

Wells, an 18‑year‑old student‑athlete, went missing during a July 4 boat trip to Horn Island. His body was found two days later. An independent autopsy commissioned by his family found his cause and manner of death “undetermined.” It also noted bruising on the back his head and no water in his airway or stomach.

Investigators said decomposition limited conclusions. However, the forensic pathologist reported blunt‑force injuries and additional bruises. He said the findings required further investigation. He also disputed early claims about intoxication, noting the alcohol reading came from decomposition fluid. You can see the entire independent autopsy report here.

A.D. King’s Case Still Haunts the Family

A.D. King’s death remains one of the King family’s most painful chapters. Official reports called it an accidental drowning. Yet his widow said he had bruising, rings around his neck, and no water in his lungs. She believed he was murdered.

King said those unresolved details shaped her reaction to Wells’ autopsy. She said the similarities demand a transparent review. She added that families should not endure decades of uncertainty.

Dr. Bernice King Calls for Transparency and Truth

King urged investigators to deliver a thorough, public accounting. She said grief is already a heavy burden.

“I pray Nolan’s family receives a thorough, transparent investigation and the answers they deserve. I pray they do not have to live with decades of unanswered questions as my family has. Grief is already a heavy burden. Families deserve truth, and their loved ones deserve to be remembered for the fullness of their lives.”

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represents the Wells family, said the autopsy findings require deeper scrutiny. He vowed to push for every fact to be uncovered. He said the family deserves a complete investigation.