Independent Autopsy Leaves 18-Year-Old Nolan Wells' Death Undetermined as Mississippi Probe Continues
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 22
Independent Autopsy Leaves 18-Year-Old Nolan Wells' Death Undetermined as Mississippi Probe Continues
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 22
Summary
Roger A. Mitchell Jr. said Nolan Wells’ cause and manner of death remain undetermined, leaving the July 4 disappearance and July 6 recovery unresolved as Mississippi authorities continue investigating.
Mitchell said decomposition and a prior local autopsy limited his review, including removal of part of Wells’ neck, and prevented him from confirming drowning.
The report cited an 8-to-12-inch area of red discoloration in deep tissue on the back of Wells’ head; Ben Crump said foul play cannot be ruled out and wants access to earlier examiner photos and notes.
Wells’ parents and civil rights leaders have challenged the early drowning assumption, noting he was an experienced swimmer, his cellphone was found with a friend, and he was recovered fully clothed despite earlier videos showing him shirtless.
Crump said investigators are rebuilding the July 4 timeline and offering a $125,000 reward for information, while the sheriff’s office and state medical examiner say the case remains active and urge patience.