FBI looks into alleged threats tied to Nolan Wells death case
The FBI’s Jackson office says it is addressing interstate threats linked to the case as local investigators continue their own inquiry.
By Poppy Nakagawa · Culture Writer
2 min read
The FBI is now involved in the fallout from Nolan Wells’ death, with its Jackson office saying it is looking into alleged interstate threats connected to the case.
In a statement, FBI Jackson said the federal bureau “has been working to address interstate threats” received by “individuals related to this matter.” The agency did not publicly detail what the alleged threats said or identify who received them.
FBI Jackson said its work is happening alongside Jackson County’s separate investigation into Wells’ death.
The federal update comes after Tracestin Shepherd, described as a friend of Wells, told ABC News’ Aaron Katersky in a “Good Morning America” interview that he and friends had been receiving threats online.
Shepherd said he and the others were young adults still learning how to deal with life and adulthood, and said they did not understand the backlash directed at them. According to ABC News, Shepherd said they had done nothing wrong.
What happened to Nolan Wells
Wells went missing after a July 4 boat trip with friends to Horn Island, according to prior reporting. His friends have said he remained behind when they returned to the mainland.
Days later, Wells’ body was found in the water. Authorities have been investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Jackson County’s investigation is continuing, and FBI Jackson has framed its role around the alleged threats rather than taking over the local death investigation.
Wells’ family is also pursuing its own inquiry. The family is conducting an independent investigation into the teen’s death, including a separate autopsy from the one being handled by authorities.
Family seeks answers
The case has drawn public attention as Wells’ family and community wait for more information from investigators. The available public details leave key questions unanswered, including the precise circumstances of how Wells ended up in the water.
Authorities have not publicly released the nature of the alleged threats cited by the FBI, and no recipients were named in the agency’s statement.
Wells’ visitation and funeral are scheduled for Monday morning.
This story draws on original reporting from TMZ.