Mississippi — The family and community of 18-year-old Nolan Wells, a standout high school football player, are mourning his tragic death after he vanished during a Fourth of July boat trip with friends. His body was recovered Monday morning.

Wells disappeared while on a boat outing near Horn Island on Saturday, July 4. A search effort was launched, and authorities later confirmed the discovery of a body matching his description.

Ashlee Cole, a judge in Jackson County, confirmed in a statement that her son was among the group of young people on the boat with Wells that day. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain under investigation, with police examining video evidence that allegedly shows an argument prior to the incident.

Wells was remembered by those who knew him as a talented athlete and a bright young man with a promising future. His death has shocked the local sports and school communities.

No official cause of death has been released, and the investigation continues.

Sources: NY POST