Police Remove 34 Bodies From English Funeral Home and Arrest 2 for Fraud and Preventing Burial

Police stand guard outside the Beckside branch of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, in Hull, England.

Humberside Police arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of fraud and preventing a lawful burial after nearly three dozen bodies were discovered at three branches of Legacy Funeral Directors in Hull and East Yorkshire. The bodies were removed over five days of investigation, with 34 taken to a mortuary in Hull for identification.

The identities of the arrested individuals, a 46-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, were not disclosed by authorities. They face charges including preventing a lawful and decent burial, fraud by false representation, and fraud by abuse of position.

Nearly three dozen bodies were removed from the funeral home in northern England.

Following the announcement, 350 people contacted the police with concerns about their loved ones. Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin assured families that his team is working tirelessly to address the situation and provide support through this distressing time.

Legacy Funeral Directors, established in 2010 and described as family-run, had previously expanded its services. The company's website emphasizes its independence and flexibility in creating unique farewells for loved ones, highlighting its dedication to providing the best service and care available.