Chicago funeral investigations reveal decomposing bodies and storage violations

Authorities in Chicago are conducting investigations into two separate funeral-related facilities following the discovery of improperly stored remains. At South Chicago Chapel, investigators found approximately 56 decomposing bodies and more than 50 sets of cremated remains. In response, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has suspended the license of the chapel's owner.

The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office has taken jurisdiction over the remains found at South Chicago Chapel to confirm identities and ensure proper documentation. The office has offered to handle cremations at no cost for families and is working to reunite decedents with their next of kin.

Simultaneously, the Illinois Comptroller’s office has opened an investigation into the Bohemian National Cemetery and Crematorium on Chicago's North Side. Following a visit on July 23, officials reported equipment issues and human remains that were not being stored at the required temperatures. As a result, the crematorium has been directed to halt the intake of new human remains while the investigation continues.