Chicago Funeral Home Under Investigation for Improperly Stored Bodies

Authorities in Chicago are investigating a funeral home on the South Side following the discovery of more than 50 improperly stored bodies. These remains were found in various stages of decomposition on Thursday, prompting concerns among local officials.

The investigation began after nearby residents complained about an odor emanating from the funeral home. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that both state and local officials alerted them about the situation at South Chicago Chapel. Forensic pathologists responded to the scene and confirmed the poor condition of the remains.

Workers were observed moving bodies into an SUV outside the South Chicago Chapel on Friday, following the discovery of improperly stored bodies.

The medical examiner’s office stated, “Staff is assessing the conditions of the remains and searching for documentation regarding identification of the decedents as well as death certificates.” This review process is expected to take several days to ensure that each body is handled correctly.

State officials have suspended the license of one of the funeral home directors after finding multiple bodies in an unrefrigerated area under unsanitary conditions. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation pointed out the presence of rodent and maggot infestations due to the lack of adequate refrigeration.

Chicago police confirmed that detectives are involved in the ongoing investigation, but no arrests or charges have been filed related to the case at this time.

Records indicate that Johanna Morgan formed South Chicago Chapel Inc. in 2022. Her license was temporarily suspended on Wednesday as state regulators identified that her continued practice threatened public safety and welfare. Accusations against her involve maintaining multiple decedents in unregulated conditions, resulting in decomposition and infestations.

The funeral home is managed by a couple with prior issues, as authorities previously shut down their crematory over similar concerns. Business documents list Clark Morgan, believed to be Johanna Morgan’s husband, as the president. His own license was revoked in 2024 for operating with an expired license and exhibiting unprofessional conduct.

Fox News Digital reached out to South Chicago Chapel for comments but did not receive an immediate response.

Latasha Johnson, 55, shared that her mother’s funeral took place at the chapel on Thursday, just before authorities intervened. She was informed by officials that an autopsy would be necessary and that she would need to identify her mother’s remains soon.

Johnson expressed her distress, stating, “I’m discombobulated. My heart is broken.”