PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. — In a shocking investigation, Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter is accused of hiding decomposing bodies inside a secret room at his privately owned Davis Mortuary, according to records from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Disturbing Discovery During Inspection
On Wednesday, DORA inspectors arrived at Davis Mortuary for a scheduled inspection when they reported a strong odor of decomposition.
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Inspectors found a hidden door behind a cardboard display.
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When they attempted to open it, Cotter asked them not to enter.
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Upon entering, they discovered multiple bodies in various stages of decomposition.
According to suspension records, Cotter admitted some bodies had been stored there for nearly 15 years while awaiting cremation.
Fake Ashes Allegations & Mishandled Remains
Inspectors also revealed Cotter may have given families fake cremated remains.
Additionally, Cotter allegedly failed to embalm, refrigerate, cremate, bury, or entomb the bodies within the required 24-hour period, violating Colorado regulations.
Davis Mortuary Ordered to Cease Operations
Following the discovery, Davis Mortuary has been ordered to shut down operations pending further investigation.
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Victim Assistance & Tip Line: Families concerned about their loved ones’ remains can contact the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at (719) 257-3359 or email [email protected].
Who Is Brian Cotter?
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Position: Pueblo County Coroner
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Experience: Over 20 years in the coroner’s office
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Elected: First elected in 2014, current term set to expire in 2027
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Funeral Home History: Davis Mortuary has operated for over 100 years and was purchased by Brian and Chris Cotter in 1989.
The Cotter family’s website highlights their “old school” approach to funeral care, learned from their father, who ran several funeral homes across Kansas, Nebraska, and Southern Colorado.
Similarities to the Penrose Scandal
This case mirrors a recent scandal in Penrose, Colorado, where Return to Nature Funeral Home owners Carie and Jon Hallford were accused of improperly storing nearly 200 bodies.
This developing story has raised serious questions about oversight of funeral homes and Colorado’s regulations on handling human remains.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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