Media mogul Byron Allen has donated $100,000 to a GoFundMe campaign supporting the family of Nolan Xavier Wells, the 18-year-old football player whose death following a July 4 boating trip in Mississippi has drawn national attention.
Allen’s donation was announced as the Wells family continues to grieve and seek answers surrounding the circumstances of Nolan’s death. The contribution helped push the family’s fundraiser past the half-million-dollar mark as supporters rally to assist with expenses and provide support during the difficult time.
“My prayers are with this beautiful family during this very difficult time,” Allen said, adding that he hopes Nolan’s loved ones and others affected by the tragedy receive answers about what happened.
Nolan Wells, a student-athlete at Southwest Mississippi Community College, disappeared after traveling by boat with friends to Horn Island on July 4. According to reports, he was last seen on the island that afternoon before he failed to return with the group. His mother reported him missing, prompting a search involving multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Park Service and Mississippi authorities. His body was later discovered on the island.
The donation from Allen comes as several high-profile figures have stepped forward to support the Wells family. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump previously announced that former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick would help fund an independent autopsy, while filmmaker and media executive Tyler Perry agreed to cover funeral expenses. Rev. Al Sharpton is expected to officiate Nolan’s funeral service.
Nolan’s mother, Christine Wonsley, has continued to call for answers while asking supporters to honor her son peacefully. She described Nolan as someone who avoided conflict and said she wants the focus to remain on finding out what happened.
As the investigation continues, authorities have said the case remains active and that the official cause of death has not been released. The Wells family and supporters are awaiting additional findings as they continue their search for clarity and accountability.
