A Mississippi grand jury has unanimously returned a “no true bill” in the death of Nolan Wells, an 18‑year‑old Black teen whose body was discovered on Horn Island after a Fourth of July weekend trip with friends from Ocean Springs.
Grand jury findings
Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath released the grand jury report late Monday, stating the panel found “no credible evidence to support the public allegations” that anyone who traveled to or from Horn Island on July 4, 2026, on the vessels Triton, Palm Beach, or Tideline engaged in criminal conduct related to Wells’ death.
The report added that the position, condition, time of discovery, and location of Mr. Wells’ body are “consistent with drowning.” Both the State of Mississippi Chief Medical Examiner and a forensic pathologist (name redacted) listed the cause and manner of death as “undetermined,” noting that drowning is a diagnosis of exclusion. The grand jury understood that neither expert ruled out accidental drowning.
Community reaction
Civil‑rights advocates, including prominent attorney Ben Crump, had called for a thorough investigation and greater transparency. Crump did not comment when approached for a statement on Monday.
Family members and local leaders had raised questions about the case, emphasizing the need for accountability and equal attention to cases involving Black victims. While authorities have not alleged foul play, the lack of a criminal indictment leaves many in the community seeking answers.
District Attorney’s response
In a Facebook video, McIlrath said the grand jury’s decision reflects a “thorough and exhaustive investigation” by Jackson County officials. She reiterated that there is no evidence to support allegations that Wells’ disappearance and death were racially motivated.
The decision concludes a months‑long investigation that drew national scrutiny, but the official finding points to an accidental drowning rather than criminal activity.
What’s next?
With the grand jury’s ruling, the case is considered closed pending any new evidence. Authorities continue to encourage anyone with additional information to come forward.
For families and community members, the focus now shifts to healing and ensuring that future investigations maintain transparency and fairness.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
