In a startling revelation, families are eagerly awaiting updates on their deceased relatives as authorities unearthed 24 decomposed bodies and numerous containers of human remains hidden in a concealed chamber at a funeral home.
The distressing find occurred at Davis Mortuary in August during an inspection by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, conducted for the first time under a new state law. The mortuary, owned by former Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter and his brother Chris, saw Brian’s resignation a week post-inspection.
Out of the 24 bodies recovered, six have been positively identified and their families duly informed, following what officials termed as a meticulous identification process. Investigations suggest that most of the bodies discovered at Davis Mortuary likely date back to the years 2010-2012, as stated by CBI Assistant Director of Investigations Clint Thomason.
Thomason highlighted the challenge posed by the paper-based records at Davis Mortuary, leading to a manual review process that could extend for months to ascertain the identities of all the remains. He also confirmed the intent to identify all bodies before pressing charges, emphasizing a comprehensive approach for justice delivery.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plans to utilize dental records, fingerprints, and DNA analysis to identify the remaining 18 bodies. A man has recently revealed that his granddaughter was among the 24 bodies found at the mortuary, shedding light on the anguish faced by families like his.
John Cordova, the grandfather, shared the heartbreaking story of his daughter losing her baby in 2012 and seeking cremation services from Davis Mortuary. The recent contact from CBI informing them about the baby being among the improperly handled bodies has reopened old wounds for the family, raising profound questions about the past.
Expressing disappointment and betrayal, Cordova expressed his disbelief in the mortuary’s actions, asserting that justice must prevail. The CBI has refrained from disclosing the identities or ages of the identified remains, leaving families in a state of uncertainty and grief.
