The death of Nolan Wells on Horn Island off the Mississippi coast has drawn intense attention online. On Episode 83, Daniel Rosenberg and Michael Dye compare the public narrative with what the available evidence shows.
A central question is a single detail. Public accounts described him as fully clothed when he was found. The pair look at the photographs and at the accounts of the Cajun Navy volunteers involved in the search, and explain why that discrepancy matters.
The evidence so far
They go through the autopsy, which they describe as inconclusive, and the call for an independent review. They also cover video from the docks, the 911 call and the inconsistencies among witness and friend group accounts. The role of the Wells family's attorney, Ben Crump, comes up as well.
The science of drowning
Part of the episode explains how strong currents around the island work and what dry drowning means, including how a person can drown with little or no water in the lungs. The pair also discuss the handling of a cell phone and why chain of custody affects what evidence can be used in court.
The advice that applies to everyone
Their strongest point is practical. Anyone caught up in an investigation like this should get a lawyer, whatever the facts turn out to be.
This brief summarizes reporting and analysis discussed on Two Taps and Friends. It is not legal advice.
