The investigation into the disappearance of 18-year-old Nolan Wells has entered a new phase following the release of GPS data detailing the movements of the boat he was aboard on July 4.
For weeks, investigators released few public details, while Wells’ family continued to seek answers about the events leading up to his disappearance. The lack of official information fueled widespread online speculation, but recent developments have shifted attention back to evidence being examined by authorities.
According to information released by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, GPS records outline the boat’s movements throughout the day.
The data indicates that the vessel departed from shore at approximately 9:56 a.m. and arrived near Horn Island around 11:14 a.m. It later left the island at approximately 4:31 p.m., traveled through Fort Bayou, and returned to a dock at about 6:06 p.m. Later that evening, the boat was reportedly removed from the water at a nearby launch and transported to the owner’s residence.
Investigators have not publicly stated what conclusions, if any, they have drawn from the GPS information. However, the data provides a more detailed timeline of the vessel’s movements on the day Wells disappeared.
Meanwhile, Wells’ family has continued to press for answers. Their attorney recently highlighted what he described as differing accounts regarding Wells’ plans during his final known hours. According to the attorney, one account indicated Wells intended to return to the boat, while another suggested he planned to remain behind. The attorney characterized the difference as a contradiction that investigators should examine rather than drawing any conclusions about what occurred.
The family also recently met with the local district attorney’s office to discuss the ongoing investigation. Following that meeting, representatives for the family said the case is expected to be presented to a grand jury as the investigation progresses. Authorities have not announced a timetable for that process or indicated whether any criminal charges are anticipated.
Officials have released few additional details about the evidence currently under review. Investigators have not publicly identified a cause for Wells’ disappearance or announced any findings regarding the differing witness accounts.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to examine all available evidence—including GPS records, witness statements, and other forensic information—in an effort to establish a complete timeline of the events surrounding July 4.
For now, many questions remain unanswered. Investigators have urged the public to avoid speculation while the case remains active, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing and that conclusions will depend on the evidence collected.
