Jackson County, Mississippi — Officials from Nolan Wells’ hometown are publicly supporting Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter after the NAACP accused state and local authorities of being “derelict in their duties” in handling the teen’s death.

The sharp criticism was delivered Wednesday at the NAACP National Convention in Chicago. During the same news conference where attorney Ben Crump released preliminary independent autopsy findings, NAACP President Derrick Johnson said Mississippi officials had failed to conduct a proper investigation that would give the family and community confidence that anyone responsible would be held accountable.

Nolan Xavier Wells, 18, was last seen on Horn Island on July 4, 2026, while on a trip with friends. His body was recovered from the water two days later. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has maintained that the investigation is active and has requested tips, photos, and videos from the public.

The independent autopsy, conducted by forensic pathologist Dr. Robert Mitchell, ruled the cause and manner of death undetermined. While no fractures or deep tissue injuries were found, the examination revealed a 12-by-8-inch area of red discoloration in the soft tissue at the back of the head (occipital region). The origin of the discoloration remains unknown, and the pathologist stated that non-accidental factors could not be ruled out.

Local leaders continue to defend the sheriff’s department, stressing that the probe is ongoing. The Wells family, represented by Crump, is pressing for greater transparency as national attention on the case grows.

Sources:

• New York Pos