Ex-FBI agent discusses Nolan Wells autopsy finding

Nolan Wells, 18, went missing on July 4 on Horn Island and his body was found on July 6; his family ordered a private autopsy after authorities found no foul play.

The private autopsy, conducted by Dr. Roger Mitchell, found a red discoloration on tissue at the back of Wells' head by the occipital bone, not observed in the first autopsy because posterior head and neck dissections were not performed.

Former FBI agent Jennifer Coffindaffer said the redness was likely from an autopsy head support made of stainless steel, where Wells' head rested for an extended period, and noted it was described as redness, not blunt force trauma.

Family attorney Ben Crump shared the private autopsy results; the family continues to seek answers despite the findings showing no signs of foul play.

A mortician, quoted via Republican Precinct Chair Sarah Fields, said pressure from an autopsy headrest can leave temporary pressure marks or discoloration on a recently deceased person.