Investigators in Fortuna, California, are currently conducting an active search for animal remains as part of a probe into allegations of animal cruelty, fraud, and theft. The search follows the discovery of 117 deceased dogs in various states of decomposition on the property of a facility operating as a “no-kill” animal shelter.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office has been excavating open fields at Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary to locate animals believed to have been buried in mass graves. During the search, officials also recovered approximately 600 dog collars. The investigation into the facility began in April after authorities received credible reports regarding potential felony animal abuse, fraud, and conspiracy.
Local reports indicate that the inquiry was triggered after a neighbor entered the property without authorization and uncovered what they suspected to be buried animals. Sheriff William Honsal stated that records showed the facility had taken in 900 animals since the beginning of 2025, yet only 116 adoptions were recorded, leaving over 700 animals unaccounted for.
On Friday, the sheriff’s office confirmed that 117 intact remains were excavated from two areas on the 50-acre property. Further searches of the site yielded 21 additional dog skulls, hundreds of bones, and six loose microchips. Subsequent X-rays conducted on 70 of the recovered bodies revealed bullet fragments, leading investigators to determine that many of the animals died from gunshot wounds. Authorities also identified a barn on the premises where they suspect the animals were killed.
While the investigation is ongoing, the sanctuary’s owner, Shannon Miranda, has not been charged with any crimes. Prior to the discovery of the remains, Miranda issued an online statement asserting that his facility is a “no-kill rescue” and that media coverage had provided an inaccurate picture of his operations. He claimed that the sanctuary only euthanizes animals in rare instances, such as cases of terminal suffering or when an animal poses a significant danger.
The sheriff’s office has noted that the investigation remains complex and requires substantial time to process all collected evidence. Analysts are currently working to identify the remains by reviewing data from the microchips found at the site. The department stated that should the evidence support violations of law, the case will be submitted to prosecutors for the consideration of criminal charges.
