Authorities uncovered a grim scene involving over 100 deceased dogs, many showing evidence of gunshot wounds, during an investigation into a California animal rescue accused of abuse and deception.
Executing a search warrant at Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna, deputies from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office made this shocking discovery on Thursday.
Sheriff William Honsal described the findings as a “horrific scene,” where investigators unearthed 117 canine remains, multiple skulls, countless bones, and six stray microchips from various excavation sites on the property, according to an official release.
Investigators in California unearthed the remains of 117 dogs at a rescue facility. This discovery took place amid an investigation into accusations of animal cruelty and fraudulent activities at the site. (AP Images: Lost Coast Outpost)
The warrant empowered investigators to search the grounds and buildings associated with Miranda’s Rescue and Shannon Miranda for proof of alleged cruelty and fraud, authorizing the excavation of open fields thought to be mass graves for the dogs.
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Dozens of the unearthed dog bodies appeared to be in varying states of decomposition. X-ray results revealed several dogs showed evidence of bullet fragments, deputies say.
Investigators also discovered an area inside a barn on the property where they believe the dogs were killed. More than 600 dog collars were recovered from that same location.
Deputies are investigating an animal rescue in Fortuna, California where more than 100 remains of dogs were discovered. (AP Images: Lost Coast Outpost)
Currently, no charges have been filed. However, the sheriff’s office said, “If there is sufficient evidence to support violations of animal cruelty, fraud, or other applicable laws, the case will be submitted to the prosecution team for review and consideration of criminal charges.”
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is investigating Miranda’s Rescue in California, where the remains of 117 dog bodies were found. (Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office)
In a recent public statement posted to the rescue’s website, founder Shannon Miranda said in part:
“Allegations made without a full understanding of the circumstances can harm not only my reputation but also the future of an organization that has served this community for decades. At Miranda’s Rescue, our mission is to save as many animals as we safely can—always balancing compassion for animals with our responsibility to protect families, children, other pets, and the public.”
Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna, California is under investigation for alleged animal cruelty and animal abuse. This is a screenshot of the rescue’s website. (Miranda’s Rescue website)
News Media has reached out to Miranda for comment.
The investigation is ongoing.