HOUSTON, TX – A funeral home in southwest Houston has been ordered to cease operations after allegations of improper storage conditions for bodies surfaced. The Texas Funeral Service Commission has given Richardson Mortuary a two-week deadline to rectify the situation and comply with state regulations.
The issue gained public attention after a video shared on social media showed bodies in a room without air conditioning, raising serious concerns about the facility’s practices. The Houston Police Department is also investigating a reported altercation involving a funeral home employee and a family member.
The state commission’s cease-and-desist order accuses the mortuary of engaging in conduct that is “fraudulent, unprofessional, or deceptive.” The viral video prompted outrage among families, who were shocked to see their deceased relatives in such conditions.
One family member recognized their grandmother in the video and described the experience as heartbreaking. In response, all bodies previously held at Richardson Mortuary have been transferred to other funeral homes, with Fort Bend Memorial Planning assisting several affected families.
Communication issues have compounded the situation, with many families struggling to reach the funeral home’s management for answers. Some families have managed to arrange alternative services, while others are still seeking information on their loved ones’ locations.
Attempts to contact the owners of Richardson Mortuary have been unsuccessful, leaving many questions unanswered. The state has mandated that the funeral home address all issues and comply with regulations within the two-week timeframe.
As the investigation unfolds, affected families are dealing with the emotional impact of the situation. They are seeking resolution and accountability from the funeral home, while authorities work to ensure compliance with state standards.
The community is watching closely, hoping for swift action to prevent similar incidents in the future. The state funeral commission’s firm response highlights the importance of maintaining high standards in funeral services.