An independent autopsy into the death of Nolan Wells has yielded inconclusive results, with the performing former medical examiner, Dr. Roger Mitchell, unable to definitively rule out non-accidental factors despite noting a “red discoloration” on the deceased’s head. Attorney Ben Crump highlighted this finding, stating that the cause of death remains pending further investigation, as the official autopsy is not yet complete. However, forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden has countered these claims, asserting that the observed head injury is superficial and could easily be attributed to accidental contact with debris in the water, either before or after death. Baden suggested that the pathologist might be “reaching for straws” and that the findings are more consistent with local law enforcement’s initial assessment of an accidental death, with no evidence of foul play. Wells, 18, had gone missing on July 4th during a boat trip with friends to Horn Island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with his body being discovered two days later by a National Park Service ranger. The official cause of death is still under investigation.
Adapted from: U.S. News Today on Fox News
