383 Embalmed Bodies Found in Ciudad Juárez Plenitud Crematorium; Two Detained Amid Fake Ashes Fraud Investigation

Authorities in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, uncovered 383 embalmed bodies improperly stored in the Plenitud crematorium, which served six local funeral homes. The bodies, some dating back to 2020, were found piled in deplorable conditions across multiple rooms of the facility. Investigations revealed that the crematorium did not cremate the bodies as contracted, instead delivering fake ashes—described as resembling sand or small stones—to grieving families. The discovery followed an anonymous tip and prior complaints from residents about foul odors.

The facility was not clandestine but lacked municipal permits and had insufficient refrigeration capacity. Two individuals, the owner José Luis A. C. and an employee Facundo M. R., have been detained and charged with violations of health laws and improper handling of human remains. The Chihuahua State Prosecutor's Office is working to identify the bodies, with 27 identified so far, including some with hospital wristbands. Over 600 families have sought information, many expressing distress over the possibility that the ashes they received do not correspond to their loved ones. The United Nations Office in Mexico has called for a thorough and independent investigation into the case. Authorities are also investigating potential fraud and omissions by local funeral homes and supervisory authorities. The crematorium's irregular operation has sparked widespread outrage and demands for justice among affected families.