The Pueblo County Coroner, Brian Cotter, is facing serious accusations after state inspectors reported finding bodies hidden inside a secret room of his privately-owned funeral home, Davis Mortuary.
According to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), inspectors visited the funeral home on Wednesday for a scheduled inspection. Upon arrival, they reported a strong odor of decomposition.
Inspectors say they discovered a door concealed by a cardboard display. When they attempted to enter, Cotter allegedly asked them not to go inside. Inspectors proceeded and reported finding bodies in various states of decomposition.
Cotter told inspectors that the remains were awaiting cremation and admitted that some had been stored for up to 15 years. He also stated he “may” have provided families with fake cremated remains in place of their loved ones.
Following the inspection, Davis Mortuary was ordered to cease operations.
This investigation is ongoing.
For more information on Colorado funeral home regulations, visit the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
