Father of Nolan Wells' close friend offers $50,000 tip as family criticizes another pal

Benjamin Hudson, father of Warren Hudson—who described himself as Nolan Wells' “best friend”—has offered a $50,000 reward for any lead that results in the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for Wells' unexplained death. Hudson said the reward is intended to overcome the high-profile nature of the case, which he believes discourages witnesses from coming forward, while he stopped short of accusing any of the friends who traveled with Wells to Horn Island on July 4.

Wells, an 18-year-old athlete, disappeared after a night of partying on the island; his body was recovered two days later in surrounding waters. The family, employing civil-rights attorney Ben Crump, has criticized another friend, Tracestin Shepherd, for using a recent podcast to defend himself and for seemingly focusing on personal attention rather than the tragedy. Wells’ mother also expressed frustration with investigators who quickly suggested accidental drowning, noting inconsistencies in witness statements. The case remains under active investigation with no arrests made to date.