The investigation into the death of Nolan Wells has reached another significant milestone, with Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath confirming that the official autopsy report will not be released to the public until it has been reviewed by a grand jury.
In a video statement issued on Thursday, McIlrath explained that the decision follows the standard procedure used for death investigations in Jackson County, Mississippi. She emphasized that nearly every death investigation—except those involving natural causes or non-criminal traffic accidents—is routinely presented to a grand jury before additional information is made public.
Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old from Ocean Springs, was found dead in the waters near Horn Island on the morning of July 6 after being reported missing on the night of July 4 following a boating trip with friends. His death quickly drew national attention, prompting widespread public speculation and growing calls for answers.
On July 7, Wells’ family retained prominent civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump, who called for a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death. Just days later, on July 10, the family appeared alongside Crump and civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton at a press conference in New York. Sharpton has since joined NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens and filmmaker Tyler Perry in offering a $125,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction connected to the case.
Despite the growing public demand for updates, McIlrath stressed that investigators remain focused on conducting a complete and thorough investigation rather than rushing to satisfy public curiosity.
“The pressure for answers does not change what the work requires,” McIlrath said. “Our responsibility to Nolan and our community is to complete this investigation thoroughly and carefully, without compromise—supported by the evidence and worthy of the confidence of the people we serve.”
The district attorney also addressed criticism over the limited amount of information being released, explaining that Mississippi’s rules of professional conduct prevent prosecutors from publicly discussing evidence while an active investigation is underway. According to McIlrath, withholding details is intended to protect both the integrity of the investigation and the grand jury process—not to keep information from the public.
An independent autopsy conducted in Washington, D.C. by Dr. Roger Mitchell was unable to determine Wells’ cause of death. Mitchell explained that he could not examine the airway and lungs for the presence of water because portions of the body had already been removed during the initial examination by the Mississippi medical examiner, noting that the procedure is considered standard practice.
Although the state medical examiner completed its autopsy on July 7, the findings will remain confidential until the grand jury has reviewed the evidence. McIlrath reiterated that investigators from local, state, and federal agencies continue working through every piece of evidence, witness interview, and credible lead before any conclusions are reached.
She concluded by urging the public to remain patient, acknowledging the widespread interest in the case while warning against misinformation circulating online. McIlrath said the ultimate goal is to ensure that any answers provided are supported by a careful, fair, and trustworthy investigative process that delivers justice for Nolan Wells, his family, and the community.
Source: Various Sources.
