Christine Wells-Wonsley and Elmore Wonsley, the parents of Nolan Wells, addressed the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) convention in Atlanta on Thursday. They were joined by civil rights attorney Ben Crump and activist Rev Al Sharpton.
Wells, an 18-year-old college student, was found dead on 6 July after going missing on 4 July following a boating trip with friends. His death has garnered national attention, with social media users speculating that his race influenced the investigation's perceived lack of urgency.
During their talk, Wells-Wonsley and Wonsley recounted the days their son was missing, detailing what they described as a lack of urgency from law enforcement and "inconsistencies" in accounts from some of Wells' friends. Wells-Wonsley also stated she has received numerous attacks since her son's death.
The family is still seeking answers regarding why Wells did not return with his friends, and when or how he died. The state of Mississippi has not yet released its autopsy report, with the Jackson county district attorney stating it will not be released until a grand jury is convened. An independent autopsy commissioned by the family found the cause of death to be inconclusive.
Crump stated that Wells' family is focused on getting answers and had concerns about a fair investigation. Wells' parents, Crump, Sharpton, and Georgia representative Lucy McBath have called for a federal review of the investigation. The congressional Black caucus chair, Yvette D Clarke, and other members also sent a letter to the US attorney general and the FBI director urging an independent review.