The results of an independent autopsy into the death of Nolan Wells have been deemed "inconclusive" by Attorney Ben Crump, with a former medical examiner stating the findings do not indicate any wrongdoing.
At the NAACP National Convention in Chicago, Crump revealed that an area of "red discoloration" was found on Wells' head during the independent autopsy. However, Dr. Roger Mitchell, who performed the autopsy, has been unable to come to a conclusion "pending further investigation." The official autopsy has yet to be completed.
Crump expressed concern about the nature of the injury, questioning why there was a "dark red" area found on the back of Wells' head. The pathologist conducting the independent autopsy could not rule out the possibility that intervening non-accidental factors may have contributed to or caused Wells' death.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden provided an alternative explanation for the head injury, suggesting that it could have resulted from a minor impact, such as bumping into something in the water. He noted that the injury was superficial and could have occurred either before or after death.
Dr. Baden also criticized Dr. Mitchell's findings, stating that he was "reaching for straws" in the independent autopsy report. He added that the results were consistent with accounts from local law enforcement, which indicate that Wells' death was accidental and did not involve foul play.
