A nationwide call for truth, transparency and accountability surrounding the death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells is bringing advocates and community members together Sunday, Nov. 1.

The “What Happened to Nolan?” Tampa march begins at 3 p.m. at Joe Chillura Courthouse Square, 600 E. Kennedy Blvd., in downtown Tampa.

The demonstration is part of the One March. Fifty States initiative, with marches planned across all 50 states and London.

What Happened to Nolan Xavier Wells?

Wells disappeared during a Fourth of July weekend boating trip with friends near Horn Island, off Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. His body was discovered two days later.

Independent and state autopsies listed his cause of death as undetermined. In September, a grand jury declined to bring criminal charges, maintaining evidence suggested accidental drowning, although autopsy findings showed no water in his lungs, stomach or throat.

Tampa March to Honor Nolan Wells and Encourage Voter Engagement

For Tampa organizer Shariffa Spicer, a mother of six, the case hits close to home.

“We think about our children, we think about our family,” Spicer said.

Beyond honoring Wells, the march will highlight Tampa’s Black history and encourage voter participation ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

The route includes the courthouse, police department, Perry Harvey Park and Robert Saunders Library. A historian will provide historical context.

Spicer emphasized that the march is not political but about a family seeking answers.

“This is about humanitarianism, this is about someone’s life,” she said.

Participants are encouraged to wear black and powder blue, Wells’ favorite color.

Two additional marches are scheduled Sunday in St. Petersburg: one at Vinoy Park beginning at 8:30 a.m. and another at 3 p.m. at the St. Pete Coliseum, featuring social justice advocate Tamika Mallory.

More information: WhatHappenedtoNolan.com and OneMarchFiftyStates.com.