Byron Allen has donated $100,000 to support the family of Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-year-old who was found dead after disappearing during a July 4th boating trip to Horn Island, Mississippi.
Major Contributions
Allen's contribution to the GoFundMe, initially reported by TheGrio, was confirmed by Variety. "My prayers are with this beautiful family during this very difficult time," Allen stated. "My hope is that Nolan Wells' loved ones, and humanity, get all the answers that we deserve."
The GoFundMe campaign, started earlier in the week for Wells' family, including his mother Christine Wonsley, has also seen donations from comedian Lil Rel Howrey and Auburn football quarterback Deuce Knight, raising $574,719 towards a $750,000 goal.
Community Mourning
The GoFundMe page describes Wells as a beloved son, grandson, brother, friend, and teammate, whose life left a lasting impact. "His smile, kind heart, and love for others left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him," reads the page. The extensive search involved the United Cajun Navy, first responders, local law enforcement, the U.S. Coast Guard, and organizations across the region.
"While no words can ease the pain of this unimaginable loss, we are deeply grateful for every person who searched, prayed, shared his story, and stood beside our family during these difficult days," the family added.
Notable Support
Attorney Ben Crump announced at a press conference Friday that Tyler Perry agreed to cover the funeral expenses, while Colin Kaepernick will pay for an independent autopsy. The Rev. Al Sharpton will conduct the funeral service.
On Instagram, Perry wrote, "As a son of the South and a person who to this day questions the death of my nephew in a Louisiana prison, and as an advocate who has been fighting for years to get answers for Marcia Williams about what happened to her son Terrance in Florida, I know what it's like to not have the answers that loved ones so desperately need. The agony is debilitating. It is my hope that Nolan’s parents and all who knew and loved him get to the truth of what happened in Mississippi."
Ongoing Investigation
According to Crump's website, Nolan Wells was last seen on Horn Island around 3 p.m. on July 4. He was reported missing that night after failing to return with his group. A body was found by a U.S. park ranger on July 6, later confirmed to be Wells. An autopsy was scheduled for July 7, and Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter stated the investigation is active, with the cause of death still undetermined.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/byron-allen-donates-nolan-wells-tyler-perry-funeral-costs-1236807312/
