Rev. Al Sharpton and Tyler Perry Increase Reward in Nolan Wells’ Case

Civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the investigation into Nolan Wells’ death. Wells, an 18-year-old from Mississippi, was remembered during a funeral service, where Sharpton called for witnesses to come forward.

I want to offer a reward of $50,000 to anybody that will give information that will lead to an arrest and a conviction in the case of what happened, Sharpton said. You were not on that island by yourself. Somebody saw something and knows something.

Shortly after, Sharpton received a text from Tyler Perry, who agreed to match the reward, bringing the total to $100,000. The announcement came during an emotional service attended by family, friends, and community members. They remembered Wells’ faith, kindness, and athletic achievements, renewing calls for a full investigation.

Sharpton, assisting the family alongside attorney Ben Crump, emphasized the need for a fact-based pursuit of justice. We want a full and thorough investigation, he said. We don’t want nothing sugarcoated either way.

The case has gained national attention due to questions about the circumstances of Wells’ death. Family members and civil rights advocates have expressed concerns that the investigation might not have examined all angles. Scrutiny increased after reports of hateful and threatening messages toward the family following Wells’ death.

Sharpton remarked, We cannot say it was racist, but we cannot say it was not racist. So let’s not judge either way until all the evidence is examined. Crump echoed these sentiments and urged anyone who was present on Horn Island with Wells to provide information.

They went out on the boat, the boat came back, and Nolan washed up on the shore two days later dead. Wouldn’t you want answers? Crump asked. Wouldn’t you want justice?

Speakers at the Funeral

During the service, Wells’ parents spoke of a teenager remembered for compassion and strong faith. His mother described him as someone with a gentle, calming spirit who made others feel valued. He had a way of making people feel seen, welcome, and valued, she said.

She recalled Nolan’s dream of having three daughters someday and spoke of his faith. Despite their grief, the family finds comfort believing he is resting in the arms of the Lord. His father shared memories from Nolan’s childhood and his success in sports, highlighting his positive influence on siblings.

I want to start out by saying how proud I am of you, my son, he said.

Investigation Updates

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of Wells’ death. Initially, they did not suspect foul play, pending autopsy and toxicology results. The local sheriff’s office stated Wells chose to stay on the island, but his family and Ben Crump dispute this, citing inconsistencies in witness testimonies.

The FBI is assisting with local investigations and looking into interstate threats related to the case. Crump’s team obtained video footage showing a confrontation before Wells vanished. Crump believes the footage raises questions about the witness timeline. However, friends of Wells argue that the footage shows a separate incident.

Crump also noted Wells was one of the few Black attendees on the island, stressing the need for a thorough examination of all evidence. Speaking at the funeral, Sharpton stated he got involved after the family sought help from the National Action Network in Harlem. He reiterated the importance of not jumping to conclusions before investigations are complete.

I do not think that it is appropriate for either side of opinions to prevail without the backing of that investigation, he said, mentioning Mississippi’s history necessitates careful scrutiny.

The reward will be funded through the National Action Network, with Tyler Perry offering additional support. Wells’ family remains committed to keeping his memory alive and seeking justice.