Jackson County, Mississippi – Authorities recovered a body Monday morning during the search for 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells, a football player from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, who disappeared during a boating trip over the Fourth of July weekend near Horn Island on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
According to Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter, the body was found at approximately 8:45 a.m. in the water near the northwest shoreline of Horn Island, about 10 miles off the Mississippi coast.
Officials said the individual matched the description of Nolan Xavier Wells, although formal identification was pending through the local coroner’s office.
Nolan Xavier Wells was reported missing Saturday afternoon after spending time on a boat with friends during Independence Day celebrations.
Search efforts quickly expanded and involved the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, local law enforcement agencies, marine units, and the nonprofit rescue organization United Cajun Navy, which ᴀssisted throughout the operation.
Following the recovery, Christine Wonsley, the young athlete’s mother, shared an emotional message thanking relatives, friends, community members, volunteers, first responders, and everyone who participated in the search.
She described her son as «a special soul» and asked for privacy as the family begins to grieve.
Family members said Nolan Xavier Wells was a wide receiver at Southwest Mississippi Community College and previously played football at Ocean Springs High School, where he earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and classmates for his positive atтιтude and dedication to the sport.
In a statement, United Cajun Navy confirmed that search operations concluded after the discovery.
The organization extended its condolences to the family and thanked the emergency crews and volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the search.
Authorities emphasized that the Jackson County Coroner’s Office will complete the official identification and determine the cause of death.
Investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding Nolan Xavier Wells’ disappearance, and no additional information has been released while the investigation remains active.
The loss has deeply affected the Ocean Springs community and the Mississippi football community, where many continue honoring Nolan Xavier Wells and supporting his family during this difficult time.