Roomies, the search for answers surrounding Nolan Wells’ death continues. And now, District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath reveals the next step involving his autopsy report. With many still asking questions about what happened to the 18-year-old, officials say they’re moving carefully before releasing additional details from the investigation.
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District Attorney Addresses Why Answers Aren’t Being Released Yet
On Thursday, District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath addressed the ongoing questions surrounding Nolan Wells’ death. She confirmed that the 18-year-old’s autopsy report will remain sealed until it can be reviewed by a grand jury. McIlrath explained that nearly every non-natural death in the county is presented to the grand jury, adding that this process has been followed throughout her career.
While acknowledging the public’s demand for answers, McIlrath said investigators must prioritize the integrity of the case and allow the evidence to guide the process. “The pressure for answers does not change what the work requires,” she said, adding that the investigation must be completed “thoroughly and carefully” while remaining supported by the evidence and worthy of the community’s confidence.
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Officials Say The Investigation Must Be Protected
McIlrath also addressed concerns over why more information has not been released publicly. She explained that withholding certain details does not mean officials are keeping the truth from the public. She said Mississippi’s rules of professional conduct limit what prosecutors can share during an active investigation. And, that protecting specific facts is necessary to preserve the grand jury process.
Wells, an 18-year-old from Ocean Springs, was found dead in the water just off Horn Island on the morning of July 6 after he was reported missing on July 4 following a boating trip with friends. His death quickly gained national attention, with many people taking to social media searching for answers and asking the same question: what happened to Nolan Wells?
New Details Emerge As Questions Surround Nolan’s Death
Following his death, Wells’ family retained civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump. Additionally, he called for a thorough and transparent investigation. Days later, the family held a press conference in New York alongside Crump and civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton. Sharpton later 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 Wells’ death.
An independent autopsy conducted by Dr. Roger Mitchell in Washington, D.C., was unable to determine Wells’ cause of death. Mitchell said he could not examine the airway and lungs for signs of water because portions of Wells’ body. He claimed they had already been removed during the state medical examiner’s examination, which he noted is a common practice. For now, Wells’ autopsy findings will remain unavailable until the grand jury completes its review. As the investigation continues, his family and the public seek answers surrounding the circumstances of his death.
