Police investigating a funeral director after 35 bodies were removed said specialists were brought in to check whether the ashes found on site were even from humans.
Last week Humberside Police recovered dozens of bodies from Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, amid concerns brought to its attention. A scene guard remained in place at the premises as the force confirmed it had been contacted by more than 1,500 people who had used the business.
In its latest update, it was confirmed the force believes it has spoken to all 35 families involved. Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin added the National Crime Agency had been brought in to check if all remains found were human.
He added: “Exactly one week ago today (Friday March 8), following concern about the storage and management processes relating to care of the deceased at the funeral directors, my team of specialist trained officers began to respectfully recover 35 deceased people from Legacy Independent Funeral Directors on Hessle Road in Hull.
“Working in partnership with His Majesty’s Coroner, I can confirm whilst formal identification procedures are ongoing, we do believe we have contacted all families of the 35 deceased. My specialist trained officers continue to support the families involved at this extremely difficult time whilst lengthy enquiries are ongoing.
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“As a part of our wider investigation, we can confirm specialist experts and advisors from the National Crime Agency (NCA) are currently assisting Senior Investigating Officers with our investigation, including establishing if what has been respectfully recovered are in fact human ashes. A scene guard remains in place on Hessle Road in Hull; however, I can confirm specialist search teams concluded their searches at the business premises yesterday.”
He requested people “refrain from speculating” as the investigation continued, while also encouraging people with concerns to get in touch.
ACC McLoughlin added: “I am aware this has been a worrying time for our communities, and I want to thank them for their help and patience throughout the start of this investigation. This has truly been an awful incident and the families are understandably distraught and have many questions, and we are doing everything we possibly can to give them the answers they deserve.
“This is an extremely complex and sensitive investigation, and we are continuing to work with His Majesty’s Coroner, Hull City and East Riding Council. We will continue to release updates on any significant developments as and when we are able, but we do need to be mindful not to jeopardise ongoing investigations and we ask that people refrain from speculating and show the utmost respect for bereaved families within our community.
“I encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to us and has concerns to please call us on our dedicated phone line. You can also submit information through our Major Incident Portal.”
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