In a deeply troubling incident that has garnered national attention, Richardson Mortuary in Houston, Texas, is under investigation following the discovery of at least ten decomposing bodies stored in deplorable conditions. This case underscores the importance of regulatory oversight and funeral homes’ legal responsibilities toward the deceased and their families.
Disturbing Discovery Sparks Outrage
The investigation commenced after Tamara McGruder and her brother visited Richardson Mortuary to check on their mother’s remains. Upon opening the casket, they were met with a horrifying sight: their mother’s body was infested with gnats, and the facility lacked air conditioning, emitting a stench described as “rotten blood.” As they documented the scene, a funeral home employee allegedly stabbed McGruder’s brother. The wound was minor, and he was able to drive himself to the hospital. The employee claimed self-defense, and no charges were filed.
The video captured by the McGruder siblings quickly circulated on social media, leading other families to recognize their loved ones among the improperly stored bodies. Some families believed their relatives had already been cremated, only to discover their remains were still at the mortuary.
Regulatory Response and Legal Implications
In response to the public outcry and evident violations, the Texas Funeral Service Commission issued a cease-and-desist order, mandating the immediate shutdown of Richardson Mortuary. The facility was found to be in violation of multiple health and safety codes. The owner of the mortuary, who was reportedly hospitalized due to a heart attack, may face criminal charges, including abuse of a corpse.
This incident has reignited discussions about the importance of stringent regulatory oversight and the need for funeral homes to adhere strictly to ethical and legal standards. Families entrust these establishments with the care of their loved ones, and any breach of this trust can have devastating emotional and legal consequences.
Legal Recourse for Affected Families
Families affected by such conduct have the right to seek legal recourse. Potential claims may include emotional distress, breach of contract, and violations of state funeral service regulations.
If Richardson Mortuary handled your loved one’s remains, our office is working with local counsel to investigate potential claims of funeral home negligence.
At Traction Law Group, we help families navigate the emotional and legal aftermath of funeral home negligence. You deserve to know what happened and have the right to hold those responsible accountable.
Call us 24/7 at (833) 236-8253 or visit TractionLaw.com for a free, confidential consultation.
How to Report Funeral Home Misconduct in Texas
If you or your family have been impacted by the events at Richardson Mortuary or any other funeral home in Texas, you can file a formal complaint with the Texas Funeral Service Commission (TFSC). The TFSC oversees the licensing and regulation of funeral homes, directors, embalmers, crematories, and related establishments in the state.
Steps to File a Complaint:
- Obtain the Complaint Form:
- Download the official complaint form from the TFSC website.
- Download the official complaint form from the TFSC website.
- Complete the Form:
- Provide detailed information about the incident, including names, dates, and specific concerns.
- Attach copies of any supporting documents, such as contracts, receipts, or correspondence.
- Submit the Complaint:
- Email: Send the completed form and attachments to compliance@tfsc.texas.gov.
- Mail: Texas Funeral Service Commission 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 11.800 Austin, TX 78701
Contact Information for the Texas Funeral Service Commission:
- Phone: 512-936-2474
- Toll-Free: 1-888-667-4881
- Email: info@tfsc.texas.gov
The TFSC reviews all complaints to determine jurisdiction and may coordinate with other agencies, such as the Texas Department of Banking or the Texas Department of Insurance.
News Sources:
ABC13 Houston (KTRK-TV)
- Houston funeral home ordered to cease all operations after 10 bodies found without air conditioning
- 10 bodies found at Richardson Mortuary funeral home on Brookfield Drive in southwest Houston, HPD says
Click2Houston (KPRC 2)
- Houston funeral home ordered to shut down after bodies found in disturbing conditions
- Stabbing reported at funeral home in SW Houston; family claims bodies found in bad condition
KHOU 11 News
