Home / Crime and Justice / Sanctuary Horror: 117 Dogs Found Buried, Some Shot
Sanctuary Horror: 117 Dogs Found Buried, Some Shot
27 Jun
Summary
- 117 dogs and hundreds of bones were unearthed at a sanctuary.
- Many dogs showed evidence of bullet fragments, investigators said.
- An animal cruelty and fraud investigation is ongoing.
In Fortuna, California, authorities have uncovered a grim scene at Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary, discovering the remains of 117 dogs and hundreds of bones. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office announced the findings on Friday, following an investigation into animal cruelty and fraud. Many of the unearthed dogs exhibited signs of bullet fragments, according to investigators.
The discovery is connected to the disappearance of approximately 730 animals that had been housed at the sanctuary since January 2025. Investigators found an area within a barn that is believed to be where the dogs were killed, alongside 600 dog collars. The investigation is extensive and expected to take a significant amount of time.
An animal rights activist reported discovering eight dead dogs with bullet wounds on the property in April, prompting the current expansive investigation. The founder of the sanctuary has previously cited instances of euthanizing dogs with behavioral problems, urging patience for all facts to emerge. No charges have been filed as the investigation continues.
