An 18-year-old football player died after a July 4 boat trip to a Mississippi island. His family, joined by Ben Crump and Colin Kaepernick, is demanding answers and an independent investigation.
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Christine Wonsley and Elmore Wonsley spent the July 4 holiday weekend searching for their 18-year-old son, Nolan Xavier Wells. He took a boat trip with friends to Horn Island, off Mississippi's Gulf Coast. He never returned. Two days later, his body was found on the island's shore.
The family said at a news conference Friday in New York that they do not believe the official account. Sheriff John Ledbetter said investigators suspect Wells chose to stay on the island and drowned. The Wonsleys pointed to conflicting stories. Wells' cellphone and keys remained with his friends. Bystander video showed an argument over a phone. The sheriff said no foul play is suspected. The friends have retained lawyers.
The case has drawn civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who said the family commissioned an independent autopsy. Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick is funding that work. Tyler Perry is paying for the funeral. Filmmaker Spike Lee attended the conference.
Crump said the family hired him because they distrust Mississippi law enforcement, citing the state's history of racial violence. Wells played wide receiver at Southwest Mississippi Community College. His coach described him as outgoing.
The Wonsleys pleaded for witnesses to come forward. They urged peaceful protests.
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