Christine Wonsley and Elmore Wonsley, the mother and stepfather of Nolan Wells, participated in a significant event at the National Urban League’s annual conference in Nashville. They shared recent updates on their son’s tragic death.
A Mississippi grand jury concluded there is insufficient evidence to press charges regarding Nolan Wells, a Black teenager whose body was found off the coast in early July. Despite this, the family and civil rights activists continue to seek answers.
Call for Continued Investigation
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Wells’ family, emphasized a critical point in the medical examiner’s report, focusing on bruises found on Wells’ head. He urged the district attorney to keep the investigation open, questioning what caused the blunt force trauma.
“Nolan Wells’ parents deserve answers,” Crump said. “What really happened to Nolan Wells? What caused the blunt force trauma to his head?”
Rev. Al Sharpton and the NAACP both support the call for transparency. They demand the release of the state’s autopsy report and the continuation of a thorough investigation.
Grand Jury Report Findings
The grand jury, meeting in mid-September, determined Wells’ death was undetermined. Based on the evidence, his death appeared consistent with drowning. The report noted no credible evidence implicating anyone in criminal conduct related to his death.
During the investigation, numerous subpoenas were issued, with over 40 witnesses called. Evidence reviewed included GPS and cellphone data, alongside photos and videos from Horn Island.
Wells was the only Black teen among his friends on July 4. His family questioned if the investigation would differ if he was white. District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath dismissed racial motivations, asserting the concerns were unfounded.
Details and Discrepancies in Autopsy Reports
Dr. Roger Mitchell conducted an independent autopsy, concurring with the state that Wells’ death cause remains undetermined. He noted drowning as a diagnosis of exclusion. Crump previously alleged Mitchell lacked full access to the body, which the grand jury report denied.
Crump highlighted unexplained bruises found on Wells’ body. His independent report calls for the investigation to remain open due to lingering uncertainties.
Contention Over Cellphone Data
Myers McIlrath addressed disputes over Wells’ cellphone. She stated the state could not legally seize or search it. The family had control but did not provide a complete data report to the state.
Her office reviewed reports from Crump’s team, which claimed nothing was deleted from the phone.
Litigation and Public Reaction
Civil litigation is still an option. Wells’ family could face defamation lawsuits. Myers McIlrath described reputational damage and threats as consequences from the case.
Mississippi’s policy on homicide cases allows for new evidence to reopen investigations, suggesting the case is not definitively closed.
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