New details have emerged about the final hours of 18-year-old Nolan Wells before he disappeared during a July 4 boat trip to Horn Island, Mississippi.

According to a document with preliminary information from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, witnesses told investigators that Wells had been drinking heavily with friends on the island. Authorities have also stated that Wells chose to remain on the remote barrier island rather than return with his group.

Wells, a recent high school graduate and college football player, went to Horn Island with friends for an Independence Day outing. The group later left without him. His family was notified that night and reported him missing. His body was recovered from the water near the island on July 6.

Jackson County Sheriff’s officials have said they do not suspect foul play and are treating the case as a possible accidental drowning, pending full autopsy and toxicology results. An independent autopsy commissioned by the family has listed the cause and manner of death as undetermined pending further investigation.

The family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, has continued to raise questions about the circumstances, including why Wells’ phone and keys were left on the boat and the details of how and when he was last seen. Friends have described a day of swimming and socializing on the crowded island.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence, including witness statements, boat GPS data, and medical findings.

Sources

• Preliminary information from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources cited in ABC News and related reporting