Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter says detectives have found no evidence of a crime in the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells, though the investigation remains active.
Ledbetter told TMZ that investigators have interviewed several of Wells' friends and other witnesses as they work to reconstruct his final hours.
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Everything gathered so far indicates no crime occurred, the sheriff said, but he cautioned that the assessment could change if new evidence emerges.
Detectives are continuing to interview additional witnesses and sorting through a barrage of emails, texts, and social media tips from people claiming to have information.
Much of it remains unverified.
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A viral video showing a group arguing on Horn Island, near where Wells' body was found, is a major focus.
Ledbetter said investigators are trying to determine what happened in the clip and whether it relates to Wells' death, but they simply don't know at this stage.
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Authorities are asking anyone with original videos, photos, or other documentation from Horn Island to contact investigators to help separate fact from fiction.
Ledbetter noted there are no surveillance cameras on Horn Island, making firsthand evidence especially valuable.
Wells' body was found Monday after he disappeared during a Fourth of July trip to Horn Island.
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His family has retained attorney Ben Crump to push for a full investigation, friends have paid tribute online, and a GoFundMe has been launched to support his loved ones.
