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An autopsy on the body of Nolan Xavier Wells has reportedly been scheduled as internet users continue to send support to his mom and family.
According to WLOX, an autopsy is scheduled to be performed on the body of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells. This, reportedly on Tuesday, July 7. At this time, officials have reportedly noted that the body recovered from Horn Island on Monday, July 6, appears to be that of the 18-year-old. However, “DNA testing is still needed to officially confirm the identity.”
Per the outlet, the search for the 18-year-old involved multiple agencies. This reportedly included the “Jackson County Sheriffs Department, the Department of Marine Resources, the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the United Cajun Navy.”
Josh Gill, the incident commander for the United Cajun Navy, reportedly told the press that the organization received information from Nolan’s family before locating his body on Monday.
“Got the information from the mother, as well as one of the cousins, and then jumped into action really quickly. We deployed some vessels. We deployed some surface vessels, some boats, as well as personnel with drones and some boots on the ground,” he reportedly recalled.
Per Gill, the question now shifts to, “‘Truly, what happened?”
“Thats the question everybodys asking… Were not law enforcement. We are a volunteer group that specializes in search and rescue and search and recovery. We leave the investigating to the law enforcement officers. All we know is the end result,” he reportedly concluded.
According to WXXV, Christopher Wells Jr., Nolan’s grandfather, has taken to social media, reportedly sharing a post about his grandson being found, but noting “it’s now time for answers.” Additionally, Nolan’s mother, Christine Wonsley, has also been active on Facebook.
On Monday, she announced a GoFundMe created to support funeral costs for her son.
“I know times are hard and we appreciate and are grateful for anything that is donated,” she wrote.
Furthermore, a few hours later, she returned to the platform, writing:
“Thank you everyone for all the support, love and prayers. Everyone if there are any articles stating I or my husband have made statements or comment regarding the loss of our son Nolan Wells, WE HAVE NOT MADE ANY STATEMENTS TO ANYONE OR ANY OUTLET. Please respect our privacy and allow us to grieve.”
In response, social media users have shared comments.
Facebook user Ashlie Renee Wyatt wrote, “Ive seen many post about him being a light. Now, Ive started seeing videos, and I see what they meant. He should be here. Thats the only fact I know. Sending love to all who love him “
While Facebook user Yvette Mamanu Ramos added, “My heart is truly with you and your family. As a mom who lost my son to murder, I know there are no words that can take away this kind of pain. One thing I learned is to stay off social media and avoid watching the news as much as possible. Reading comments, seeing headlines, and hearing constant updates can make grieving even harder. Right now, protect your peace…”
Facebook user Brandy McClanahan wrote, “I hope you find all the answers you are seeking on behalf of your son and that justice is served. Praying for your family!”
As The Shade Room previously reported, Nolan Xavier Wells reportedly attended a boat trip and festivities on Horn Island on Saturday, July 4. At the time, he allegedly attended the outing with a group of white male friends. By Sunday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office initiated a search for Nolan.
“… Nolan is described as an 18-year-old black male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 180 pounds. Nolan was last seen on Horn Island wearing blue, not black as previously mentioned, swim trunks, no shirt, and sunglasses,” the department asserted in part at the time.
