Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter stated that investigators will not be rushed in the Nolan Wells case and are now working with prosecutors to determine what happened to the 18-year-old.
Ledbetter told ABC News on Monday that it is essential for his team not to be put on a timetable or pressured by those demanding quick answers.
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He also urged anyone with information to come forward to help solve the puzzling case.
Nolan Wells set out for a boat trip with friends on July 4 to Horn Island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
The group posted a photo on Facebook during the trip, showing them on the boat.
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When they returned to the mainland later that day, Nolan was missing.
His family reported him missing, and two days later, his body was found near the shoreline of Horn Island during a police search.
Since then, no clear answers have emerged about the cause of his death.
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Speculation has arisen, with some theorizing that Nolan, who was Black, may have been killed in a racially motivated incident due to Mississippi's history of racism.
Ledbetter emphasized that Nolan's family deserves a thorough and factual investigation, and that is exactly what they will receive.
The sheriff added that his investigators are now working with the local district attorney, but noted that this collaboration does not necessarily indicate foul play.
Ledbetter also acknowledged rumors of widespread drinking and substance abuse on the day of the trip, and said investigators are looking into those possible factors.
