The United Cajun Navy has reportedly called off its search for Nolan Xavier Wells. Initially, it was uncertain whether this meant the other Mississippi agencies involved in searching for the missing 18-year-old had also ceased their efforts. The update came after reports of a body being found on Horn Island, where Nolan was last seen on July 4. Hours later, Wells’ family identified the body as his and confirmed his death.
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Body Reportedly Found On Horn Island Belongs To Nolan Xavier Wells (UPDATE)
According to WLOX, a park ranger discovered the body at around 8:45 a.m. on Monday (July 6), two days after Nolan Xavier Wells first went missing. The body was not immediately identified, but it was found on the northwest end of Horn Island. Additionally, Sheriff John Ledbetter reportedly confirmed it matched the description of the missing 18-year-old. The condition of the body found and whether foul play was involved remains unclear. At this time, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, which oversaw the multi-agency search, has not provided any other details.
As mentioned, the United Cajun Navy announced on Facebook that the search for Nolan Xavier Wells “has been called off.” The agency offered thoughts and prayers for the teen’s family while sharing a link to WLOX’s body discovery update.
“At this time, officials have not confirmed the identity of the individual found. We will continue to provide updates as officials release a statement. Our hearts are with Nolan’s family, friends, the first responders, and everyone impacted as they await official confirmation. Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, we will continue to defer to law enforcement for any additional updates. Please keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers,” the United Cajun Navy wrote.
Nolan’s Parents & Coroner Speak Out
Nolan was first reported missing on the night of July 4 by his mother, Christine Wonsley. By that point, he had reportedly last been seen at 3 p.m. that day on Horn Island. Local police described him as standing 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds. He was last seen shirtless, wearing blue swim trunks and sunglasses. He was a student at Southwest Mississippi Community College and played wide receiver on their football team.
In an emotional social media post on Monday, Nolan’s mother described him as a “special soul.” She also thanked all the agencies and volunteers who aided in the search for her son.
“His father, our family, friends and I are absolutely devastated. My heart is broken for my sweet son who was always willing to cheer and uplift others,” Christine Wonsley wrote, per the New York Post. “Nolan was a special soul; God took his time creating our son. I ask that you please give me and my family time to grieve.”
Early Monday afternoon (Eastern Time), Jackson County Coroner Bruce Lynd told WLOX that DNA testing will confirm that the body discovered is Wells’. However, Lynd added: “There is no reason to believe it is not him.”
What About The People Last Seen With Nolan?
Photos shared hundreds of times on social media appear to show that Wells might’ve been the only Black person enjoying the holiday among a group of white males. The internet has speculated that he was part of their friend group. However, at this time, police have not shared details about Nolan’s relationship with those he traveled to Horn Island with. Additionally, there hasn’t been online or media commentary from the men in the viral photos alongside Nolan. It’s unclear whether local police have questioned anyone in the group Wells traveled with. While this case remains an active investigation, it appears no arrests have been made.
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