Al Sharpton faces defamation demand over Nolan Wells death investigation

Attorneys representing three friends of Nolan Wells have issued a presuit demand letter to the Rev. Al Sharpton, alleging defamation. The 19-page document demands that Sharpton apologize, retract, and delete statements made in July and August regarding Morgan Seymour, Jax Pitalo, and Warren Hudson.

The legal dispute stems from the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells during a Fourth of July trip to Horn Island off the Mississippi coast. While the cause of death remains undetermined, Sharpton has publicly questioned the circumstances, citing Mississippi’s history to suggest a “blurred story” regarding the teen’s death while traveling with three White companions.

The attorneys for the three men allege that Sharpton falsely implied they were involved in Wells’ death, obstructed the investigation, or mishandled evidence such as his phone and keys. In response, Sharpton stated he welcomes a lawsuit and is prepared to defend his statements in court.