According to the report, the grand jury issued 132 subpoenas during its review. It also heard testimony from 43 witnesses. The panel had access to the full investigative file from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The material included witness statements and physical evidence. It also included digital evidence, interviews, photographs, videos, and recordings. GPS data and cell phone records were also reviewed. The investigation focused on events surrounding Wells’ death on July 4, 2026. Wells was on Horn Island with a larger group of people.
The report found that he arrived with a group and later met other friends on the island. He stayed after the three boats that arrived together had left.
Findings About Wells’ Death
The grand jury reviewed information from two autopsies. Both doctors reportedly concluded that the manner of death remained undetermined. The report said drowning was a “diagnosis of exclusion.” This means other possible causes were considered before drowning became the most likely explanation. The grand jury found no evidence of a fatal injury. It also reviewed bruising found on the back of Wells’ head.
The bruising was reportedly not considered fatal. However, the reason for the bruising remains unclear. A witness said Wells slipped from the side of a boat around 3:30 p.m. on July 4. The witness could not confirm whether Wells hit his head.
The witness also said Wells continued socializing afterward. He reportedly did not appear to be injured at that time.
Toxicology and Other Evidence
The grand jury also reviewed toxicology information connected to the investigation. The report stated that Wells did not have cocaine in his system when he died. It also found no evidence that he had used cocaine.
However, the report said the toxicology results had limitations. Decomposition fluid can make substance levels unreliable. The grand jury also rejected several claims that had circulated publicly. It found no credible evidence of criminal conduct by people who traveled to or from Horn Island that day.
The report also addressed claims about a Sea Tow call and photographs shared online. Investigators found that some of those claims and images did not accurately represent events from July 4.
What Happens Next
The decision does not permanently close the investigation. Mississippi has no statute of limitations for homicide cases. New credible evidence could therefore lead authorities to present the case again. For now, the grand jury has found insufficient evidence to charge anyone in connection with Wells’ death.
The latest findings state that the position, condition, discovery time, and location of Nolan Wells’ body were consistent with drowning. However, the official manner of death remains undetermined.
The case remains closely followed as authorities continue to monitor any new information.