Nolan Wells Autopsy Finds Head Discoloration at 18, as Search Leader Cites Deadly Rip Currents
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 25
Nolan Wells Autopsy Finds Head Discoloration at 18, as Search Leader Cites Deadly Rip Currents
2 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 25
Summary
Ben Crump said an independent autopsy found red discoloration on 18-year-old Nolan Wells’ head, but the pathologist could not determine a cause or manner of death pending further investigation.
Brian Trascher of the United Cajun Navy said the water near Horn Island’s northwestern tip is locally called the “washing machine” because of deadly rip currents, and people on the island described the July 4 current as extremely strong.
Trascher said Wells was last seen around 4 or 4:30 p.m. on July 4, then vanished despite daylight and other people nearby, leaving what he called a major gap before Wells’ remains were found on July 6.
Forensic pathologist Michael Baden said the reported head injury sounded superficial and could have come from debris in the water before or after death, while Mitchell’s report said non-accidental factors still cannot be ruled out.
Authorities have said foul play is not currently suspected; an official autopsy is still incomplete in the Mississippi case.