He noted that the physical characteristics aligned with the missing teen, adding, “There is no reason to believe it is not him.”
Wells was an Ocean Springs High School graduate who played as a wide receiver on the football team.
He was a rising sophomore at Southwest Mississippi Community College.
Former teammates and friends expressed grief as news of the discovery broke, recalling his positive character and willingness to help others.
“I grew up with Nolan, and he’s one of my best friends,” said Sharroid Whitehead, a teammate. Whitehead added that Wells was highly respectful and always happy.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department maintained a command post at the Lake Mars Boat Launch in Ocean Springs during the operation.
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Investigators are requesting anyone who interacted with Wells on Horn Island to contact the sheriff's department at 228-769-3063 to help establish his final movements.
