Shocking Revelation: Funeral Home's Disturbing Secret: Over 100 Human Remains Improperly Stored

Officials say that it could take several months to complete the investigation into over 115 bodies discovered "improperly stored" at a funeral home in Penrose, Colorado, which specializes in "green burials."

Fremont County Coroner Randy Keller stated at a news conference on Friday that the process ahead is expected to be extremely lengthy. Due to the large number of deceased individuals in the facility and the necessary completion of the identification process, it may take several months to conclude.

Currently, no arrests have been made. The investigation is being supported by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the FBI, working alongside the Fremont County Sheriffs Office.

"It remains unclear whether a crime has occurred," stated Vikki Migoya, FBI Public Affairs Specialist.

The report of an odor emanating from the funeral home prompted the Fremont County sheriff to reach out to the coroner's office, according to Keller.

After obtaining a warrant, they conducted a search of the building and discovered the bodies in a state of inadequate storage, resulting in a hazardous environment, according to Keller's statement.

Sheriff Allen Cooper of Fremont County characterized the scene as extremely distressing, with authorities combing through an area spanning over 2,500 square feet.

Keller declined to go into further detail on how the bodies had been stored. Keller said it is not yet clear whether the bodies had been intended for burial or cremation.

Funeral home offers green burials

According to the website of Return to Nature Funeral Homes, the funeral home provides eco-friendly burial options known as "green burials." These burials involve the absence of embalming fluid and utilize biodegradable caskets or even no casket at all. The company has a facility located in Colorado Springs, as mentioned on their website. Additionally, it is worth noting that the funeral home used to offer cremation services but discontinued them in July 2023.

A path leading to a tree at sunset.

Courtesy Transcend

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CNN has reached out to the Return to Nature Funeral Home for comment.

Once the safety of the scene is confirmed and appropriate protective gear is provided, authorities will initiate the process of recovering the bodies. To maintain privacy, Cooper emphasized the use of tents or fencing to shield the scene from public view.

Keller assured that families will be promptly notified once a body is identified. Additionally, a dedicated family crisis center and helpline have been set up to provide support and assistance.

The funeral home owners have been contacted by investigators and are currently cooperating, according to Cooper.

According to Keller, Gov. Jared Polis has declared a local disaster emergency, thereby providing access to state resources.