Photo: Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation) (Photo by ABC via Getty Images),Nolan Wells (Photo Credit: Image provided by Jackson County Sheriff’s Department)
The family continues to seek answers surrounding the Mississippi teen’s mysterious death.
“He was not on that island by himself; somebody saw something and knows something,” Sharpton said while eulogizing Wells. “I didn’t come to make money. I came to give money. Stand up and tell the truth,” he continued, according to The Associated Press.
The billionaire filmmaker has also covered the costs of Wells’ funeral, while former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has reportedly funded an independent autopsy requested by the family, reports People.com.
Wells, a Black and Asian freshman college football player, disappeared while hanging out with a group of white friends during a Fourth of July gathering on Mississippi’s Horn Island. His body was discovered two days later. Although authorities have indicated they believe Wells drowned and have said they do not currently suspect foul play, Wells’ family says those conclusions are premature. The official autopsy and toxicology reports have not yet been completed. Meanwhile, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has said the investigation remains active, and the case will be presented to a grand jury once it concludes. Nevertheless, the case, which has racial undertones, has sparked a nationwide call for transparency and accountability.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump questioned the circumstances surrounding the teen’s mysterious disappearance and death.
“They went out on the boat, the boat came back, and Nolan washed up on a shore two days later—dead,” Crump said. “Wouldn’t you want answers? Wouldn’t you want transparency? Wouldn’t you want the truth? Wouldn’t you want justice?”
During the emotional service, Wells’ mother, Christine Wonsley, remembered her son as compassionate, protective, and deeply loved.“If you ever had the privilege of meeting our son Nolan, or calling him a friend, then you experienced a glimpse of God’s love through him,” she said. “He was both protective and nurturing. We will continue to fight for you.”
The funeral drew hundreds of mourners and celebrities, including filmmaker Spike Lee and former NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens.
Source: Black Enterprise
