Family of Black teen found dead after boat trip agrees to inspect his cellphone with DA
The family of Nolan Wells, a Black teenager who died after a boat trip, is working with the District Attorney to inspect his cellphone for missing messages. Attorney Ben Crump emphasized the need for a transparent investigation, citing concerns over potential evidence tampering and law enforcement's role.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding racial equity in the American justice system and the importance of transparency in death investigations involving minority youth.
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Attorneys for the family of a Black teenager who went missing during a July Fourth boat trip to an island off the Mississippi coast said they will work with a local prosecutor’s office to inspect the contents of his cellphone as the investigation into his death continues.
The family of Nolan Wells had previously alleged that messages seemed to have been erased from his phone before they got it back, just one of a series of concerns they’ve raised about the circumstances and investigation surrounding his death.
They met with District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath on Wednesday, largely to discuss the inquiry process. But attorney Ben Crump said McIlrath also committed to presenting the investigation to a grand jury once it was completed.
Messages seeking comment from McIlrath’s office were not returned.
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