Post by Graveyardbride on Oct 6, 2023 23:38:09 GMT -5
Abandoned Corpses Discovered at ‘Green’ Funeral Home
The Return to Nature Funeral Home at 31 Werner Road in Penrose, Colorado, specialized in “green” funerals. Unfortunately, in excess of 115 corpses didn’t get buried, green or otherwise.
When a “suspicious incident” was reported to the Fremont County Sheriff’s Department, deputies went to the 2,500-square-foot, single-story facility and immediately detected an “abhorrent smell.” A judge subsequently issued a search warrant and according to Sheriff Allen Cooper, the premises “where the bodies were improperly stored was horrific.”
Fingerprints and/or medical or dental records will be necessary to identify some the remains and Fuller said Fremont County has declared a disaster in order to apply for state funds to deal with the problem. “I want to assure everyone,” he continued, “that the loved ones in this facility will be treated with the upmost care and respect. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this tragedy, and we will take every measure possible to get families the answers they deserve.”
No arrests were made, however, funeral home owner Jon Hallford (above right) was issued a letter of suspension. In addition to the decaying bodies, the owner was attempting to perform taxidermy at the site. Hallford admitted there was a “problem,” but failed to elaborate. He also is accused of attempting to conceal the alleged mishandling of corpses.
Although authorities did not disclose the manner in which the funeral home had abandoned the bodies, the Fremont County Coroners’ Office, Colorado Bureau of Investigation and other agencies are investigating.
According to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, the funeral home’s license expired November 30, 2022. The business also owes $5,385 in property taxes and interest from Tax Year 2022, in addition to facing several legal issues, including two civil lawsuits.
Green Burial is a natural way of disposing of the dead with minimal environmental impact. No harsh embalming chemicals or metallic, plastic or other “unnatural” items are used in preparation of the corpse. Once prepared, the corpses – which may be viewed by loved ones – are placed in a biodegradable shroud, wicker basket or wooden receptacle and buried.
Sources: Brie Stimson, Fox News, October 6, 2023, and Zacharay DuPont, The Colorado Springs Gazette, October 6, 2023.