Humberside Police are investigating Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull following the discovery of 35 bodies and suspected human ashes, highlighting concerns over practices within the funeral industry.
Humberside Police are investigating Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull after the discovery of 35 bodies and suspected human ashes at their site, prompting a widespread investigation into the firm’s practices. Despite receiving over 2,000 calls related to the case, police have been unable to identify any of the cremated ashes due to the high temperatures of cremation degrading DNA to unrecognizable levels. Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin expressed sympathy for the families involved, acknowledging that this inability to identify remains will likely be devastating for those affected.
Richard Shaw, a resident of Woodmansey, near Hull, was informed that the ashes he believed belonged to his late wife, Rita, were not actually hers after her cremation in October 2023. His wife’s ashes were unexpectedly found in a mortuary at Hull Royal Infirmary, leaving him in shock and at loss regarding the true identity of the ashes he had received. Similarly, Gary Dean discovered that the urns he received for his mother, Joan Dean, who passed away in December 2022, did not contain her ashes. Police informed him that his mother’s ashes were found in a paper bag with her name on it.
The situation has been described as “devastating” by Humberside Police, who are dealing with the complex task of identifying the deceased. The complications stem from the degradation of DNA in the ashes, rendering it impossible to extract meaningful profiles for identification. The police are investigating suspicions of financial and fraudulent activities related to the case, with two individuals arrested and currently on bail.
Humberside Police have been supporting the affected families, providing assistance and urging anyone affected or with concerns about funeral plans to seek support through the Victim Support helpline. The ongoing investigation highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with sensitive cases within the funeral industry and underscores the importance of transparency and proper procedures in handling the remains of the departed.
