Body Believed to Be Missing 18-Year-Old Found on Horn Island; DNA Confirmation Pending

OCEAN SPRINGS, MS (BuzzReport) — A heartbreaking search for a missing 18-year-old has taken a tragic turn after authorities discovered a body Monday morning on Horn Island that is believed to be that of Nolan Wells, who disappeared over the Fourth of July weekend.

According to the Jackson County Coroner’s Office, the body was located on the northwest end of Horn Island at approximately 8:45 a.m. Officials said the remains match the description of the missing teenager, but a positive identification has not yet been made.

Investigators are awaiting DNA test results to officially confirm the identity of the deceased.

Wells was reported missing on Saturday, July 4, prompting an extensive search involving multiple agencies as family members and the community hoped for his safe return.

Authorities believe the body washed ashore before it was discovered Monday morning. The circumstances surrounding Wells’ disappearance and death remain under investigation.

The Jackson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that an autopsy will be performed to determine the official cause and manner of death.

At this time, investigators have not released additional details about what may have led to the tragedy, and officials have not indicated whether foul play is suspected.

The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine exactly what happened.

The BuzzReport will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available from investigators and the Jackson County Coroner’s Office.