An independent autopsy commissioned by the family of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells has determined that the cause and manner of his death remain "undetermined" pending further investigation, according to an AP report.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the Wells family, announced the preliminary findings on Wednesday at the annual NAACP National Convention in Chicago. The report was prepared by forensic pathologist Dr. Robert Mitchell.
Autopsy finds no fractures or bruising, foul play not ruled out
According to Crump, the independent examination found no evidence of fractures or bruising but did not eliminate the possibility of foul play.
The forensic pathologist identified "red discoloration" in the soft tissue at the back of Wells' head but found no skull fractures or skin lacerations in the area. Crump said decomposition of the body and other limitations prevented the pathologist from reaching a final conclusion.
The report stated that without additional information, the pathologist "cannot rule out if any intervening nonaccidental factors contributed to or caused the death of Nolan Wells."
