JACKSON COUNTY, Mississippi — Authorities continue an extensive search for 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells, who was reported missing after being last seen on Horn Island during the Independence Day holiday.
Multiple local, state, and federal agencies remain involved as investigators work to determine his whereabouts.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Nolan Xavier Wells was last seen at approximately 3:00 p.m. on July 4 near the western end of Horn Island.
Investigators said it has not yet been confirmed whether he ever returned to the mainland, making the search especially challenging.
Search operations include personnel from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, the United States Coast Guard, the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, and the United Cajun Navy.
Crews are using boats, aircraft, drones, and specialized search teams to cover both the island and surrounding waters.
Authorities describe Nolan Xavier Wells as a Black male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall and 180 pounds.
He was last seen wearing blue swim trunks, no shirt, and sunglᴀsses. Investigators recently obtained a pH๏τograph believed to show Nolan on Horn Island shortly before his disappearance, and detectives continue interviewing witnesses who may have seen or spoken with him that day.
Family members have joined the search effort while asking the public for prayers and ᴀssistance.
Investigators are urging anyone who was on Horn Island on July 4, traveled by boat in the surrounding area, or may have provided Nolan with transportation to immediately contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, emphasizing that even the smallest piece of information could help establish his last known movements.
The investigation remains active, and officials have stated they will continue following every available lead until Nolan Xavier Wells is located. Law enforcement agencies continue coordinating search efforts as the community hopes for answers in the days ahead.
