The family of one of Nolan Wells’ friends, Bart Edmiston Jr., released a statement Wednesday speaking out against social media speculation surrounding Wells’ death, strongly denying any involvement and announcing legal action against online accusers. Edmiston was a friend of Nolan Wells and played on the Ocean Springs High School football team with Wells. According to the statement, Edmiston piloted his own boat to Horn Island on July 4, 2026, and provided aid to a distressed vessel by assisting in towing it to drain accumulated water. The family revealed that severe cyberstalking and death threats directed at Edmiston have made silence impossible. The Edmiston family is working with the FBI, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and local authorities to address cyberstalking crimes, stating their goal is to push back against “mob rule” and protect their family’s safety.