Horrifying discovery as more than 50 decomposing bodies found at Chicago funeral directors

Horrifying discovery as more than 50 decomposing bodies found at Chicago funeral directors Police are investigating after more than 50 decedents in various states of decomposition were found at the South Chicago Chapel funeral home on Thursday August 6 An investigation has been launched after more than 50 decomposing bodies were found improperly stored in a Chicago funeral home, authorities said on Thursday. The Chicago Police Department is investigating after human remains were found at the South Chicago Chapel funeral home, located at 2939 E. 95th St. on the city's Southeast Side. Officers were initially called to the scene to help the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation with a “license investigation.” The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed investigators and forensic pathologists who went to the facility "found more than 50 decedents in various states of decomposition at this time." The medical examiner's office said investigators were still assessing the conditions of the bodies, and searching for documents to identify them, including death certificates, a process which could take several days. The horrifying discovery comes after neighbours complained of a foul odor in the area for nearly two months. At times, the stench was so potent, it made it difficult to venture outside, they said. "Every time I come through here, I smell a foul smell in the air and I was wondering what that smell was, and I kept thinking maybe it was the sewer," Frank Bower told WGN. A statement issued to the Mirror by Chicago police this morning reads: "Chicago Police Department officers assigned to the 4th (South Chicago) District responded to a funeral home at the above location to assist the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation with a license investigation. Upon arrival, human remains were discovered. "The Chicago Fire Department responded to the location and declared the scene a hazardous material (HAZMAT) incident. Area 2 Detectives are conducting an investigation. " The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office released the following statement: "The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office was notified by Illinois and Chicago officials of decedents improperly stored at a funeral home in Chicago. MEO investigators and forensic pathologists went to the funeral home, located at 2939 E. 95th St. in Chicago, this afternoon. The team has found more than 50 decedents in various states of decomposition at this time. "MEO staff is assessing the conditions of the remains, searching for documentation regarding identification of the decedents as well as death certificates. This process could take several days to ensure proper disposition. "The MEO will work with authorities to identify these decedents as quickly as possible and notify their families. The Office will share additional information as it becomes available." The Mirror has contacted South Chicago Chapel funeral home and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for comment.