Nolan Wells Independent Autopsy: Possible Head Injury

Preliminary findings from the independent autopsy commissioned by the family of Nolan Wells, a young Black man found dead off the Mississippi coast, have been released. The results suggest a possible injury to the back of his head, raising further questions about the circumstances of his death.

Family attorney Ben Crump reported a focal area of red discoloration in the soft tissue at the back of the head, measuring about 12 by 8 inches in the lower part of the skull. However, due to significant decomposition, it was impossible to determine if there was bruising on the skin. Some experts note that such discoloration can occur from blood pooling when the body is placed on a slab for examination.

Crump also noted that when the body was received by the independent examiner, the throat components were missing—they had been removed by the official medical examiner for further study. This detail has added to the family's concerns.

The independent autopsy was conducted by Dr. Roger Mitchell, a board-certified pathologist and president of the National Medical Association, who previously served as Chief Medical Examiner in Washington, D.C. He stated that the cause and manner of death are undetermined pending further investigation, and he cannot rule out foul play.

Nolan Wells went missing during Fourth of July weekend and was found dead two days later near Horn Island. Authorities initially stated he drowned, but the family and prominent figures such as Reverend Al Sharpton and Tyler Perry have questioned that narrative. They are offering $50,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Nolan's mother addressed the crowd, saying the pain of losing a child is immeasurable, and her family's focus is on finding out what happened to Nolan. She also mentioned enduring false allegations of racism, which has added to her grief.

The official autopsy results have not been released. The Mississippi medical examiner's office said the autopsy performed on July 7 was in accordance with standard procedures, and the case remains an active investigation.

Earlier, video footage from Horn Island on July 4th surfaced, showing a man resembling Nolan bending over to grab a drink from a cooler. The footage may capture his final hours.