Nolan Wells' family shares emotional letter in honor of his 19th birthday as new questions emerge
Biloxi, Mississippi - The family of Nolan Wells penned an emotional message to the late Mississippi teenager on what would've been his 19th birthday.
More than a month after his death, Wells' mother, Christine Wonsley, took to Facebook to mark her son's birthday.
"Today you are 19 Nono! There are so many things we want to say but we will keep it simple," she wrote in the post shared Wednesday.
"As we sit here and reflect on what an amazing kiddo you grew up to be, we can't help but to feel blessed, honored, proud, but most of all thankful. Thankful we were able to experience a glimpse of God's love in human form."
Wonsley described Wells as an "angel" and added, "Although you are no longer physically here with us, we will always celebrate you and the legacy you have left for us to protect," Wonsley added.
"You have taught us so much about life and how everyday is a blessing and how we have to do better at just living in the moment."
The post, which was signed by Wells' parents, siblings, and other family members, also featured several photos of the high school football star over the years.
On the same day, the family held a prayer rally in Biloxi, Mississippi, to mark the birthday and continue to press for answers in the case.
Drowning deaths are rare on the island where Nolan Wells disappeared
Wells was found dead on July 6 after he disappeared during a boat trip with friends to Horn Island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast on the Fourth of July.
So far, no evidence has indicated foul play, but the circumstances around his death and lingering questions have continued to fuel speculation.
On Thursday, a report from People revealed that drownings are exceedingly rare on Horn Island, and if Wells did indeed drown, it would be the first such death there in several years.
The outlet explained that the Jackson County coroner confirmed there had not been a fatal drowning at Horn Island in the last six years, though drownings have occurred at nearby islands like Petit Bois.
Friends have said that Wells chose to stay behind as the others took the boat back to the mainland – a claim that Wells' parents have called into question.
In a recent podcast interview, Wells' friend Warren Hudson said, "I wish we would have never went out on the Fourth of July... I know this wouldn't have happened."
Cover photo: REUTERS