Grand Jury Declines Charges in Death of Nolan Wells; Family Pushes for Further Investigation

Wilmington, NC, September 22, 2026 — A grand jury has declined to recommend criminal charges in connection with the death of Nolan Wells, a Black college student who was found deceased following a July 4 boat trip and party. The incident occurred on Horn Island, located off the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

According to the findings presented to the grand jury, Nolan Wells’ death was determined to be consistent with drowning. The grand jury reviewed the evidence and concluded its proceedings without recommending any charges against individuals in relation to Wells’ passing.

However, the family of Nolan Wells has expressed strong disagreement with the grand jury’s conclusion. They are reportedly pushing back against the official findings and have voiced significant questions regarding the cause of death. The family is demanding that the investigation into Wells’ death be continued, indicating they are unsatisfied with the outcome that concluded his death was accidental and consistent with drowning.

The circumstances surrounding Wells’ discovery after the holiday outing remain a point of contention. Details regarding the specific events of the boat trip, the party on Horn Island, or any potential contributing factors leading to his death were not detailed in the grand jury’s decision to decline charges. The contractor’s name was not provided. The exact timeline of events after the party and before his discovery was not provided.

The family’s continued pursuit of further investigation highlights the ongoing concerns and the desire for a more comprehensive understanding of how Nolan Wells died. The fine amount was not provided.

Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.wwaytv3.com, see more information here.