20 Decomposing Bodies Hidden Behind Door at Colorado Funeral Home for 15 Years, Owner Admits Giving Fake Remains to Families

Human bodies, found “in various stages of decomposition,” were discovered at a funeral home in Colorado.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, authorities confirmed that the remains were located at Davis Mortuary in Pueblo during an inspection conducted the day before.

“The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies’ (DORA) Division of Professions and Occupations recently conducted an annual inspection at Davis Mortuary, located at 128 Broadway Ave in Pueblo,” a statement from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) read. “As a result of that inspection, Davis Mortuary has been issued a summary suspension.”

Authorities reported, “During the inspection, authorities found several bodies in various stages of decomposition.”

“The appointed designee for the funeral home, Brian Cotter, told inspectors that some of the bodies had been awaiting cremation for approximately 15 years. He also admitted that he may have given next-of-kin fake cremains,” the statement continued.

During a press conference on Thursday, shared by the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook, Sam Delp, division director for the Colorado Department’s Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO), said inspectors found “around 20 or so” bodies. He confirmed that this was Davis Mortuary’s first inspection.

PEOPLE has contacted Davis Mortuary, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, and the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

The bodies were reportedly found behind a door after funeral home owner Brian Cotter told inspectors not to enter a room hidden by a cardboard display, according to ABC News. Inspectors noted a “strong odor of decomposition,” the outlet reported.

A spokesperson told CBS News that “upon removing the cardboard display, Mr. Cotter asked the inspectors not to enter the room behind the previously hidden door.”

Officials from the CBI stated during Thursday’s conference that efforts are underway to identify all victims and notify their families.

“No formal charges have been filed at this time,” said Pueblo County District Attorney Kala Beauvais, adding that the investigation, conducted by multiple agencies, will be “long, tedious, and thorough.”

Sheriff Lucero noted that Cotter’s brother is believed to be listed as a co-owner of the funeral home.

In a separate press release from the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney’s Office, the CBI reported, “On August 18, 2025, the District Attorney’s Office responded to a citizen email reporting the discovery of human remains on his property located in the Wild Horse Mesa community in Costilla County.”

“The victim has not been identified at this time,” the release said. “Efforts are underway to determine the identity of the deceased individual and the circumstances surrounding their death.”

Officials added, “Further information will be released as it becomes available. The District Attorney’s Office encourages citizens of Costilla County to bring their concerns to the District Attorney’s Office.”

The investigation remains ongoing.