Civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the investigation of 18-year-old Nolan Wells’ death. This announcement took place during a funeral service for the Mississippi teenager, where Sharpton stated, “I want to offer a reward of $50,000 to anybody that will give information that will lead to an arrest and a conviction in the case of what happened.” He emphasized that “somebody saw something and knows something.”
Before the service concluded, Sharpton shared that filmmaker Tyler Perry had texted him, offering to match the reward with another $50,000, increasing the total reward to $100,000.
The emotional service included family, friends, and community members reflecting on Wells’ faith, kindness, and athletic achievements. Sharpton, along with attorney Ben Crump, stated the investigation must be based on evidence, not speculation. “We want a full and thorough investigation,” Sharpton assured attendees.
The case has gained national attention, with questions about the circumstances surrounding Wells’ death. Family members and civil rights advocates have raised concerns about whether the investigation has examined all aspects thoroughly. According to Newsweek, Wells’ family has reported hateful and threatening messages received after his death.
“We cannot say it was racist, but we cannot say it was not racist. So let’s not judge either way until all the evidence is examined,” Sharpton said.
Crump added that witnesses should recount the event, stating, “They went out on the boat, the boat came back, and Nolan washed up on the shore two days later dead. Wouldn’t you want answers? Wouldn’t you want justice?”
Who Spoke at the Funeral?
Wells’ parents spoke at the service, remembering their son for his compassion, faith, and dedication to family. His mother described Nolan as possessing “a gentle, calming spirit” and a talent for making others feel valued. “He had a way of making people feel seen, welcome and valued,” she shared. She recalled Nolan’s dream of having three daughters and expressed comfort in believing he is “resting in the arms of the Lord.”
His father recounted memories of Nolan’s childhood and athletic career, noting his excellence in multiple sports and positive influence on younger siblings. “I want to start out by saying how proud I am of you, my son,” he said. “You grew up to be a very young man and everyone enjoyed being around.”
Sharpton reassured mourners that the search for answers should unite, not divide, the community.
What the Investigation Shows
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Wells’ death. Initially, they did not suspect foul play after his body was found following a July 4th missing report, although official autopsy results are pending. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office stated Wells voluntarily stayed on the island after others departed, but his family and attorney Crump dispute this, citing witness inconsistencies.
The FBI’s Jackson Field Office assists local investigators, also investigating interstate threats related to the case.
Crump’s legal team obtained video footage he claims shows a confrontation before Wells disappeared. At a news conference, Crump described hearing in the footage, “Give me my freaking phone. What are you freaking doing?” He argues the video presents further questions about the timeline witnesses provided.
Tracestin Shepherd, present on Horn Island, told Rolling Stone he, not Wells, is heard in the recording, asserting it depicts a different altercation not involving Wells. Crump remarked Wells was among few Black attendees and urged investigators to examine all evidence thoroughly.
At the funeral, Sharpton said he got involved after Wells’ parents visited the National Action Network’s Harlem headquarters. He noted Crump is assessing the case facts.
“I do not think that it is appropriate for either side of opinions to prevail without the backing of that investigation,” Sharpton said.
He stated Mississippi’s history warrants greater scrutiny in the case. The reward, funded through the National Action Network, receives support from Tyler Perry, who contacted Sharpton about the case.
Wells’ family committed to seeking answers, with his mother declaring they will “continue to fight” to honor Nolan’s memory and pursue justice.
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