Chicago authorities are investigating a South Side funeral home after more than 50 bodies were discovered improperly stored and in various states of decomposition on Thursday.
The discovery came months after nearby residents began complaining about a strong odor coming from the funeral home, known as South Chicago Chapel. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office said that state and local officials had alerted it to the issue, prompting an investigation into the funeral home's handling of remains.
According to the medical examiner's office, investigators and forensic pathologists found bodies in various states of decomposition during their response to the scene. Staff members are currently assessing the conditions of the remains, searching for documentation regarding identification of the deceased individuals as well as death certificates.
The process is expected to take several days to ensure proper disposition. State officials have suspended the license of one of the funeral home's directors, alleging that multiple bodies were kept in an unrefrigerated area under "deplorable conditions." The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation said that the conditions included rodent and maggot infestations.
No arrests or charges have been made in connection with the discovery, but Chicago police said detectives are investigating.
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