• 381 embalmed corpses found piled in a private crematorium in Ciudad Juarez.
• Bodies were stored improperly for up to two years, raising negligence concerns.
• Authorities link incident to systemic issues in Mexico's forensic system.

In a harrowing discovery, authorities in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, uncovered 381 embalmed corpses stored haphazardly at a private crematorium, with many believed to have been there for up to two years. Eloy Garcia, spokesperson for the Chihuahua state prosecutor's office, reported that the bodies were crusted in a state of disorder, indicating "gross negligence" by the crematorium operators. Families had been misled into believing their loved ones had been cremated and received “other material” instead of ashes, according to Indiatimes, AA, and CBS News.

The initial reports indicated only a few bodies at the site, but investigations revealed a significant increase in the number of uncremated remains. Eloy Garcia emphasized that all crematorium businesses are aware of their daily capacity, stating, "You can't take in more than you can process." One administrator has surrendered to authorities for questioning, but it remains uncertain whether the deceased were victims of the ongoing violence related to organized crime in Mexico, according to Indiatimes and CBS News.

This incident has amplified concerns regarding the state of Mexico's forensic system, already facing challenges from increasing homicide rates and insufficient staffing. Local authorities are committed to investigating the matter thoroughly, aiming to hold those responsible accountable and alleviate the distress of affected families. "We will seek the highest possible penalty for those responsible," stated César Jáuregui Moreno, the State Attorney General, highlighting the gravity of this unfolding tragedy, according to AA and CBS News.