Authorities in Chicago, Illinois, are investigating a funeral home located in the southern part of the city after more than 50 decomposing corpses were discovered there on Thursday.
Medical examiners in Cook County, where the agency was located, are attempting to identify the deceased and notify their families. However, according to CBS, this process may take several days because the bodies are in various stages of decomposition.
The funeral home director, Joanna Morgan, allowed several bodies to be stored in an uncooled area under horrific conditions, including rodent infestation, as reported by the same publication that reviewed photographic materials. This led to the 'decomposition and larval infestation of the bodies.'
In the available images, the bodies could still be seen, partially wrapped in sheets or clear plastic bags, with open faces and body parts.
Joanna's license has been suspended. Furthermore, the active commercial license of South Chicago Chapel indicates that Clark Morgan, Joanna's husband, is its president, and his license was previously revoked in 2024.
In the United States, the regulation of funeral home operations is determined primarily at the state level.
In testimonies heard by CBS, one woman stated that her sister was supposed to be cremated at this funeral home, but now she is unsure if she received the correct remains. A neighbor of the agency also reported that it 'always smells bad' and that it is an 'unbearable stench.'
