Chicago Funeral Home Found With Over 50 Decomposing Bodies

Authorities in Chicago discovered more than 50 decomposing bodies improperly stored at a funeral home on Thursday, triggering a hazardous materials response and a complex identification effort. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office said investigators and forensic pathologists were dispatched to South Chicago Chapel after state and local officials reported improper storage of remains.

The remains were found in various stages of decomposition. The medical examiner's office stated that staff are assessing the condition of the bodies, searching for identification documents and death certificates, and that the process could take several days to ensure proper disposition.

Illinois state officials have suspended the funeral director's license of Johanna Morgan, who incorporated the funeral home in 2022. The suspension was based on findings that multiple decedents were kept in an unrefrigerated area with deplorable conditions, including rodent and maggot infestation, leading to decomposition.

State business records also list Clark X. Morgan as the funeral home's president. His funeral director's license was revoked in 2024, and he was fined $10,000 for practicing with an expired license and unprofessional conduct.

State Comptroller Susana Mendoza noted that Johanna and Clark Morgan previously operated a crematory in Chicago Heights, which had its license revoked last year after authorities found improperly stored bodies and hundreds of unreturned cremated remains. Mendoza expressed horror at the repeated discovery, emphasizing that the deceased are someone's loved ones who deserve better.

Neighbors reported a strong odor emanating from the funeral home area. No arrests have been announced, but police detectives are investigating. The funeral home's website promises compassionate care and dignified service, a stark contrast to the conditions found.