56 Decomposing Remains Found at Chicago Funeral Home
Authorities in Chicago discovered the remains of 56 people improperly stored and decomposing at South Chicago Chapel on Thursday. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office sent investigators and forensic pathologists after receiving reports from state and local officials. The remains were found in varying stages of decomposition, and identification work is expected to take several days before families are notified.
The discovery followed months of complaints from nearby residents about a strong odour coming from the funeral home. Some residents said they had contacted city authorities before the investigation began. Police said detectives are examining the case, but no arrests had been announced. Officials also corrected an initial statement that described the location as a hazardous materials scene on Friday.
Illinois regulators temporarily suspended funeral director Johanna Morgan’s licence on Wednesday. The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation alleged that several bodies had been kept without refrigeration in conditions involving rodents, decomposition and maggot infestation. Regulators concluded that allowing Morgan to continue practising posed a danger to public safety, interest and welfare. South Chicago Chapel was incorporated in 2022 officially.
Business records identify Clark Morgan, Johanna’s husband, as company president. His funeral director licence was revoked in 2024 for working with an expired licence and unspecified unprofessional conduct. State officials said the couple previously operated Heights Crematory in Chicago Heights, where authorities found improperly stored bodies and hundreds of cremated remains that had still not been returned to their families.
Several relatives came to the funeral home seeking information. Latasha Johnson said her mother’s funeral had taken place there shortly before authorities arrived, and that she was later told an autopsy and identification would be required. Community advocates questioned why earlier odour complaints had not produced faster action. Officials said records were being reviewed, while messages seeking comment were unanswered.