At Least 117 Dead Dogs Found Buried at California ‘No-Kill’ Shelter, Investigators Say
What began as a tip about suspected animal abuse has turned into one of the most disturbing animal cruelty investigations California has seen in recent years.
Authorities say they have uncovered the remains of at least 117 dogs buried across the property of Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary, a self-described “no-kill” shelter in Fortuna, California. Many of the animals appear to have died from gunshot wounds, according to investigators.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that search teams also recovered 21 canine skulls, hundreds of bones, and additional animal remains scattered throughout the 50-acre property.
During a search on Thursday, investigators identified an area inside a barn where they believe dogs may have been killed. Nearby, deputies discovered more than 600 dog collars, adding to what Sheriff William Honsal described as a “horrific scene.”
The investigation began in April after authorities received what they called credible reports alleging felony animal abuse, animal cruelty, fraud, and conspiracy involving the shelter. No criminal charges have been filed at this stage.
Using ground-penetrating radar, investigators located 117 intact dog remains buried in an open field. Seventy of those remains were examined with portable X-ray equipment, revealing bullet fragments in many of the bodies. Officials said gunshot wounds appear to be the cause of death for numerous animals, though forensic examinations are continuing.
Investigators also recovered additional remains in advanced stages of decomposition, suggesting the total number of deceased animals could be higher.
According to court documents from an earlier search, the investigation gained momentum after two animal advocates alerted authorities. One of them reportedly owns neighboring property and used trail cameras to monitor activity near what was believed to be a burial site. The advocates later entered the shelter property and unearthed dog remains, prompting law enforcement to launch a broader investigation.
Miranda’s Rescue has received dogs from private owners as well as animal shelters, collecting transfer fees and donations that it says help fund food, veterinary treatment, housing, medications, staffing, and facility operations.
In a statement posted on the shelter’s website on June 18, founder Shannon Miranda defended the organization’s practices, saying recent media coverage had presented “an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture” of its work.
Miranda maintained that the sanctuary follows a no-kill philosophy and does not euthanize animals simply to make room for others. However, the statement acknowledged that euthanasia may be performed in rare situations involving terminal illness or animals that pose a serious threat to people or other animals.
“We make the most humane and responsible decision we can, always with public safety and animal welfare in mind,” the statement read.
Sheriff Honsal emphasized that investigators are still in the early stages of the case.
“This investigation is just getting started,” he said. “There is a tremendous amount of data to process, witnesses to interview, and evidence to examine.”
As forensic analysis continues, authorities are working to determine how the animals died, identify possible victims, and establish whether criminal charges will follow.
