The Cumberland Times-News
·Jul 2026
Family of Mississippi teen who died after July 4 trip call for transparency, deeper investigation
Attorneys representing the family of 18‑year‑old Nolan Xavier Wells, found dead after a July 4 trip to Horn Island, urged a deeper and more transparent investigation, citing inconsistencies in available details. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump announced plans for an independent autopsy while joining the family and the Rev. Al Sharpton at a news conference. Wells traveled to the island with friends but did not return with them; his body was discovered the following Monday.