Authorities in Mississippi are continuing to investigate the death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells after recovering a body believed to be his near Horn Island, with formal identification and the cause of death pending forensic testing.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Wells traveled to Horn Island with friends on July 4 after departing from a private dock in the Ocean Springs area. Investigators said he was last seen near the island at approximately 3 p.m. and did not return with the rest of the group.
“From what we understand, he chose to stay there,” Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter said during an interview with “Good Morning America.”
Wells’ mother reported him missing shortly before midnight, prompting a multiagency search involving the United States Coast Guard, the National Park Service, state agencies, and local emergency responders. Search operations continued through the weekend by air and water.
Mississippi’s Nolan Xavier Wells, 18, Found Dead At Horn Island After 4th Of July Celebration, Autopsy Underway
Authorities said a National Park Service ranger discovered a body near the northwestern tip of Horn Island on Monday morning. The recovery followed an extensive search coordinated from the Lake Mars Boat Launch command post.
Bruce Lynd, the Jackson County coroner, said he had “no reason to believe it wasn’t him,” referring to Wells, but emphasized that official identification would depend on DNA analysis. An autopsy was scheduled for July 7 at the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office Coast Laboratory.
The investigation remains active as law enforcement officials continue interviewing individuals who accompanied Wells to the island. Sheriff Ledbetter said investigators currently suspect drowning but have not reached a final conclusion.
“Number one, give the family space and time,” Ledbetter said. “They are still processing this tragic event.”
He added, “We’re looking at this whole case just like we would any other case. And we’re going to be as thorough as we can.”
Ledbetter also said investigators have found no evidence indicating drug or alcohol use, although toxicology testing remains pending. Authorities have asked anyone with information regarding Wells’ disappearance to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office as investigators continue to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
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