Houston, TX — May 2, 2025
Richardson Mortuary, a funeral home in southwest Houston, has been ordered to immediately cease operations after a Texas Funeral Service Commission (TFSC) investigation uncovered serious health and safety violations, including multiple decomposing bodies stored in unsanitary conditions.
The investigation was launched after a viral video emerged on April 11, showing graphic footage of bodies lying uncovered on the floor, surrounded by gnats, in a building with no air conditioning. The video was shared by Tamara McGruder, whose mother’s body was among the deceased. McGruder and her brother had gone to the funeral home after receiving no answers for weeks.
A confrontation during the visit escalated when McGruder’s brother was stabbed by a mortuary employee, though police later determined the employee acted in self-defense and did not press charges.
Following the video, TFSC inspectors discovered the funeral home was operating in clear violation of multiple state regulations, including failure to refrigerate remains, failure to maintain sanitation standards, and operating without proper oversight.
The TFSC issued a cease-and-desist order, demanding Richardson Mortuary halt all operations and provide compliance documents, including a full list of staff and decedents in their care, by April 28. As of April 24, the funeral home had failed to respond, placing its license in jeopardy.
Houston Police Step In
In the wake of the investigation, the Houston Police Department has taken custody of 89 sets of cremated remains from the mortuary, of which only six have been claimed by families. Additionally, 13 bodies were discovered at the facility and have been transferred to other funeral homes for proper care.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have had loved ones processed through Richardson Mortuary to contact them immediately. Many of the cremated remains were left unclaimed, raising concerns about recordkeeping and possible misidentification.
Owner Hospitalized, Facility in Disrepair
According to reports, funeral home owner Michael Bell has been hospitalized since February, and the building itself had sustained damage from Hurricane Beryl, which may have contributed to the facility’s deteriorating condition. However, investigators emphasized that no circumstances justify the neglect witnessed in the video and confirmed in inspections.
The TFSC is considering additional fines and possible license revocation. Meanwhile, Houston Police say criminal charges could follow, pending the outcome of their investigation into possible abuse of a corpse, fraud, or other offenses.
Ongoing Investigation
The case has drawn widespread public attention and prompted calls for increased regulation and oversight of the funeral industry in Texas.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for families who trusted this facility with their loved ones,” said one TFSC official. “There is no excuse for what we found.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
For assistance or to report concerns, contact the Houston Police Department or the Texas Funeral Service Commission.
