Chicago funeral home found with over 50 decomposing bodies

Authorities in Chicago are investigating a funeral home where more than 50 decomposing human remains were discovered during a state licensing inspection on August 6, 2026. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the remains were found in various states of decomposition at the South Chicago Chapel, located at 2939 E. 95th Street on the city's Southeast Side.

The investigation began after state regulators received a complaint alleging improper storage of remains. Chicago police officers accompanied investigators from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to the funeral home around 2 p.m. on Thursday. Inside, they discovered the remains, with some reports indicating they were located in the basement and an attached garage. The conditions were described as deplorable, with some bodies left unrefrigerated and infested with rodents and maggots. The scene was declared a hazardous materials incident, and the Chicago Fire Department assisted with gaining entry.

State records show the funeral director and embalmer, Johanna Morgan, has had her license temporarily suspended. Regulators determined the facility's practices posed a danger to public...