Nolan Wells GoFundMe raises over $66,000 after Horn Island tragedy draws nationwide support

An online fundraiser created for the family of Nolan Xavier Wells has raised more than $66,000 after the 18-year-old Mississippi teen was found dead following a days-long search near Horn Island.

Wells disappeared while on a boating trip with friends during the Fourth of July weekend. Authorities located a body matching his description near the island on July 6, and his family later confirmed the heartbreaking news. As friends, community members and public figures shared messages of support, donations continued to pour into a GoFundMe campaign created to help Wells’ family with funeral and memorial expenses.

Nolan Xavier Wells fundraiser launched to help family with funeral and memorial costs

The GoFundMe campaign was created by Allayah Denis, a friend of Wells’ mother. In the fundraiser message, Denis described Wells as a beloved son, brother, grandson, friend and teammate whose life touched many people.She also thanked the volunteers and agencies that took part in the search effort, including the United Cajun Navy, first responders, local law enforcement officers and the United States Coast Guard.

Explaining why the fundraiser was started, Denis wrote in part: “Our hearts are broken beyond words. Nolan Xavier Wells was a beloved son, grandson, brother, friend and teammate whose life touched so many people. His smile, kind heart, and love for others left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.”She added that the money would help cover funeral expenses, memorial services and other costs facing the family during an extremely difficult time.Denis also shared a message of appreciation for those who have donated, prayed for the family and helped spread information about the fundraiser. According to the campaign page, the goal is $120,000, and donations have continued to increase following Wells’ death.

Andy Cohen, Tefi Pessoa and Misan Harriman share messages for Nolan Xavier Wells

As news of Wells’ death spread, several well-known personalities posted tributes on Threads.Television host Andy Cohen wrote, “RIP Nolan Wells.

What a tragedy.”Pop culture commentator Tefi Pessoa also remembered the teenager, writing, “rest in peace Nolan Xavier Wells. praying for his family. I cannot even imagine receiving the news.”Photographer and filmmaker Misan Harriman shared a longer tribute, saying, “His name was Nolan Xavier Wells. He was 18. He was loved. He deserved more time. Our hearts are with Nolan’s family, friends, and community as they navigate this devastating loss.”The messages came as many people across Mississippi and beyond continued to mourn Wells, who was last seen during a boating trip with friends on Horn Island. The search for the teenager drew widespread attention and involved multiple agencies before a body believed to be his was found near the island. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.