Pueblo Mortuary Investigation Sparks Outrage and Reform Calls Across Colorado
A criminal investigation into Davis Mortuary, a funeral home operated by Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter, has sent shockwaves through southern Colorado and reignited calls for reform in the state’s oversight of death care services.

The scandal erupted on August 20 when inspectors discovered a concealed room inside Davis Mortuary containing 24 decomposing bodies, multiple containers of bones, and probable human tissue. Some remains had allegedly been stored for up to 15 years, and Cotter admitted to issuing fake cremains to grieving families.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation launched a criminal probe, executing search warrants at the homes of Brian Cotter and his brother Chris Cotter, co-owners of the mortuary. Although no arrests have been made, both men have retained legal counsel and are cooperating with authorities. Officials stated they do not consider either a flight risk.

Governor Jared Polis and nearly every elected official in Pueblo County have publicly called for Cotter’s resignation. However, under current Colorado law, elected coroners cannot be forcibly removed from office. As of August 26, Cotter remains in his position despite mounting pressure and a formal recall petition filed by local residents.

“This case illustrates a serious gap in our laws,” Polis said during a press conference. “We need mechanisms that allow for swift action when public trust is violated in such a fundamental way.”

The identification of the remains is expected to take months due to their condition and poor recordkeeping. Investigators will rely on dental records, fingerprints, and DNA samples submitted by families. Authorities have received hundreds of tips and launched a victim assistance hotline and questionnaire to support affected individuals.

The Colorado Coroner’s Association has removed Cotter from its board, and Davis Mortuary’s license has been suspended indefinitely. The incident has drawn comparisons to a previous funeral home case in Penrose, where nearly 200 bodies were improperly stored, prompting the passage of stricter regulations that led to this inspection.

Community members have expressed grief, anger, and betrayal. “We entrusted our loved ones to this place,” said Pueblo resident Veronica Molin. “Now we don’t even know whose ashes we have. It breaks my heart.”

As the investigation continues, lawmakers are expected to revisit coroner accountability laws and strengthen enforcement mechanisms for funeral homes statewide.

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