Nolan Wells Not First Person to Drown Off Horn Island Coast, Local Says

Nolan Wells‘ family may not be convinced he drowned off the coast of Horn Island … but some of the area locals say they wouldn’t be surprised — because the waters have claimed other lives.

Here’s the deal … NBC News spoke to several people who regularly visit the area — all anonymously due to the media scrutiny around the mysterious case — including a boat operator who gave a rundown on the area’s current.

The boat operator said, “I know people that have grown up out there that have died out there. It’ll humble you very quick. I don’t care what kind of shape you’re in. Those currents can get you, and before you even realize you’re in trouble, you’re gone.”

Of course, Ben Crump — the attorney for the Wells family — has argued that it’s unlikely Nolan drowned because he knew how to swim … which the boat operator here is basically saying doesn’t guarantee anything.

NBC News also talked to people who explained the culture around a Horn Island weekend … including how vacationers often meet up with other groups and catch rides back with other friends.

This would help explain Nolan choosing to stay behind at Horn Island at 3 PM on July 4 instead of heading back with his original group of pals, as they claim. They also had his phone … which some told NBC News is normal because it’s a safe, dry place to keep it while you wade about in the water.

As you know … Nolan was found dead on July 6 … and authorities have said they believe he drowned, though they’re continuing to investigate.