(PUEBLO, Colo.) — Alongside the criminal investigation into Davis Mortuary, where over 20 bodies were found improperly stored, a secondary inquiry by the Division of Insurance (DOI) is looking into potential victims who may have arranged pre-need funerals.
On Aug. 20, during a Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) inspection, the remains of more than 20 people were found improperly stored in a non-climate-controlled room hidden behind a piece of cardboard at Davis Mortuary in Pueblo. The mortuary, which was co-owned by former Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter and his brother Chris Cotter, has since had its mortuary license revoked.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is leading the criminal investigation, and now the DOI is leading a secondary inquiry into pre-need funeral contracts that may have been arranged at Davis Mortuary.
According to the DOI, a pre-need funeral “is any written contract or agreement for future funeral services for a named beneficiary.” Due to the loss of Davis Mortuary’s license and the criminal investigation, the DOI has issued a form for people to fill out if they have a pre-need funeral contract with Davis Mortuary.
Those who have questions about pre-need funeral contracts impacted by the Davis Mortuary investigation are also encouraged to fill out the form to receive assistance from the DOI.