The family of Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old who went missing on Horn Island, Mississippi, has ordered an independent autopsy following his death. Wells was last seen on July 4 with friends and was reported missing that night. His body was found on July 6 in the water near the island.
Ben Crump, a civil rights attorney representing the family, announced the independent autopsy and investigation. The family has expressed concerns about the official investigation, citing potential racial bias. Crump stated the family wants transparency and an unbiased review of the circumstances surrounding Wells' death.
Meanwhile, AI-generated videos and deepfakes have spread online, confusing the public and shaping perceptions of the case. Some clips falsely depict events related to Wells' disappearance, including staged rescues and altercations. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office has stated that foul play is not suspected but continues to seek witnesses and original footage from the day.
The family, along with Crump and civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton, plans a news conference in New York on Friday to call for a deeper investigation. The sheriff's office has not yet commented on the family's independent review.