An inquiry has been initiated following the discovery of over 50 decaying bodies stored improperly at a funeral home in Chicago, as announced by authorities on Thursday.
The Chicago Police Department is actively looking into the situation after human remains were uncovered at the South Chicago Chapel funeral home situated at 2939 E. 95th St. on the city’s Southeast Side. Initial reports indicated that officers were called to assist the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation with a “license investigation.”
According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, investigators and forensic experts who visited the facility confirmed the presence of more than 50 deceased individuals in various stages of decay.
Officials stated that the condition of the bodies is still under evaluation, and efforts are ongoing to locate identifying documents such as death certificates, a process that might extend over several days.
This troubling revelation follows complaints from neighbors about a putrid smell in the vicinity persisting for nearly two months. The odor was so overpowering at times that residents found it challenging to go outdoors. Frank Bower shared, “Every time I come through here, I smell a foul smell in the air and I was wondering what that smell was, and I kept thinking maybe it was the sewer,” as reported by WGN.
A statement released by the Chicago police indicated, “Chicago Police Department officers from the 4th (South Chicago) District responded to a funeral home at the specified location to aid the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation with a license inquiry. Upon arrival, human remains were discovered.”
Following the discovery, the Chicago Fire Department was called to the scene, classifying it as a hazardous material (HAZMAT) incident. Area 2 Detectives are actively leading the investigation.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office also issued a statement confirming that they were informed by Illinois and Chicago officials about improperly stored deceased individuals at a Chicago funeral home. The team discovered over 50 deceased persons in various stages of decomposition at the mentioned location and is currently assessing the situation.
Efforts are underway to identify the remains and locate necessary documentation, including death certificates, a process that may require several days to ensure proper arrangements.
The Medical Examiner’s Office assured collaboration with authorities to promptly identify the deceased individuals and notify their families. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.
The Mirror has reached out to the South Chicago Chapel funeral home and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for their input.