Biloxi, Miss. – On Wednesday, the community will come together for a prayer rally at Greater St. John AME Church to honor 19‑year‑old Nolan Wells, who died during a July 4 boating outing on Horn Island. The event, organized by Wells’ family and local clergy, reflects the deep faith and concern of the area’s residents.
Family’s heartfelt birthday letter
In a moving letter shared with the press, Wells’ parents expressed gratitude for the love their son brought to their lives. They wrote, “We are thankful we were able to experience a glimpse of God’s love in human form. Although you are no longer physically here, we will always celebrate you and the legacy you have left for us to protect.” The letter, addressed to “Nono” – a term of endearment in the family – underscores the spiritual comfort they seek amid unanswered questions.
Prayer rally details
The rally will begin in the evening at Greater St. John AME Church, located about five miles from Ocean Springs, Nolan’s hometown. Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia, is slated to deliver the keynote address. He posted on Instagram, “Prayer is a weapon that never runs out of ammunition. Let’s stand with this family before God! This is not over!!”
Civil‑rights attorney Ben Crump, who represents the Wells family, also called for unity and prayer, asking the nation to join in seeking truth about the teen’s death.
Investigation remains open
Authorities have not released a definitive cause of death. Two autopsies – one commissioned by the family and one by the state – have been deemed inconclusive, and the state’s toxicology report is sealed pending grand‑jury review. Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath said she cannot share further details while the case is under investigation.
Friends who were on the boat reported a bilge pump failure that caused the vessel to take on water. After the boat began sinking, they called for towing assistance and left the island around 4:30 p.m. Their attorney, Tyler Cox, said the teens were not abandoned, noting that “there were 2,000 other people there, so he wasn’t left alone by any means.” The exact circumstances after the group departed remain unknown.
Community response and safety concerns
Since the incident, some of Wells’ friends and local officials have reported receiving threats. Three individuals in separate states have been charged with crimes related to those threats, according to the Associated Press.
Local leaders, including Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network, are organizing a nationwide virtual prayer vigil at noon on Wednesday, urging clergy and supporters to pray for the family and press for answers.
Looking ahead
While the investigation proceeds, the Wells family and their community continue to seek closure through prayer, fellowship, and public awareness. The rally offers an opportunity for residents of Biloxi, Ocean Springs and the surrounding Gulf Coast area to stand together in faith and hope for truth.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
