Maya Kensington
The autopsy of Nolan Xavier Wells is set to take place as online communities rally in support of his mother and family during this challenging time.
RELATED: Nolan Xavier Wells’ Tragic Death Sparks Discussion About Racial Dynamics in Predominantly White Spaces
Scheduled Autopsy for Nolan Xavier Wells
As reported by WLOX, an autopsy for 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells is slated for Tuesday, July 7. Officials have indicated that the body recovered from Horn Island on Monday, July 6, is believed to belong to Wells, though “DNA testing is still needed to officially confirm the identity.”
The search for Nolan involved a coordinated effort from multiple agencies, including the “Jackson County Sheriff’s 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, shared with the media that they received timely information from Nolan’s family, which facilitated the location of his body on Monday.
“We got the information from his mother and a cousin, and we jumped into action quickly. We deployed vessels, surface boats, and personnel with drones, along with boots on the ground,” he recounted.
Gill emphasized that the pressing question is, “‘What truly happened?’”
“That’s what everyone is asking… We are not law enforcement. We are a volunteer group specializing in search and rescue operations. The investigation is left to law enforcement. All we know is the outcome,” he concluded.
Support for Nolan Xavier Wells’ Family Floods Social Media
WXXV reported that Christopher Wells Jr., Nolan’s grandfather, has taken to social media to share a post regarding his grandson’s discovery, expressing the need for “answers.” Nolan’s mother, Christine Wonsley, has also been active on Facebook.
On Monday, she announced the creation of a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses for her son.
“I know times are tough, and we are grateful for any donations,” she stated.
Later that day, she returned to Facebook to express her gratitude:
“Thank you everyone for your support, love, and prayers. If you see articles claiming that I or my husband have made statements regarding the loss of our son Nolan Wells, WE HAVE NOT SPOKEN TO ANYONE OR ANY MEDIA OUTLET. Please respect our privacy as we grieve.”
In response, social media users shared their support and condolences.
Facebook user Ashlie Renee Wyatt remarked, “I’ve seen many posts about him being a beacon of light. Now that I’ve started seeing videos, I understand what they meant. He should be here. That’s the only fact I know. Sending love to all who cared for him…”
Another Facebook user, Yvette Mamanu Ramos, shared, “My heart truly goes out to you and your family. As a mother who lost my son to murder, I understand that no words can alleviate this kind of pain. One thing I learned is to limit my time on social media and the news. Constantly reading comments and updates can complicate the grieving process. Right now, prioritize your peace…”
Facebook user Brandy McClanahan expressed, “I hope you find the answers you seek for your son and that justice prevails. I am praying for your family!”
Currently, donations to the GoFundMe have surpassed $80,000, inching closer to the $120,000 target.
Updates on the Search and Rescue Efforts
As reported earlier by The Shade Room, Nolan Xavier Wells attended a boat trip on Horn Island on Saturday, July 4, with a group of friends, predominantly white males. By Sunday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office had initiated a search for Nolan.
“… Nolan is described as an 18-year-old Black male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 180 pounds. He was last seen on Horn Island wearing blue swim trunks, not black as previously reported, and he had no shirt and was wearing sunglasses,” stated the department at the time.
RELATED: Friends of Nolan Xavier Wells Speak Out Following the Recovery of His Remains on Horn Island (UPDATE)
What Are Your Thoughts, Roomies?
Tessa Everly
David Bridges
