State inspectors have uncovered nearly 20 decomposing bodies hidden inside a Colorado funeral home operated by the county’s elected coroner — a discovery authorities called a “profound violation of trust and a heartbreaking betrayal.” 

The remains, believed to date back as far as 15 years, were discovered Wednesday in a concealed room at Davis Mortuary, according to officials during a Thursday news conference held by the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office.

The chamber’s door was hidden behind a cardboard display, and inspectors noted a “strong odor” upon finding the room, local outlets reported, citing state documents.

The private facility – which has been operating as a funeral home since 2010 – underwent its first annual inspection this week under a new oversight law passed after a local 2023 scandal, in which nearly 190 bodies were improperly stored at Return to Nature Funeral Home and families were given fake ashes.

Armando Saldate III, the director of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, announced details of an investigation into Davis Mortuary on Thursday. (Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office)

“Our top priorities are to respectfully and humanely process the scene, identify all the deceased, and notify their families and loved ones,” Saldate said.

“This is going to be a comprehensive investigation, and the financials will definitely be part of them,” he added.

No formal charges have been filed yet. Authorities said they are aware of Brian Cotter’s whereabouts, and he will continue to serve as the Pueblo County coroner for now. Both Cotter brothers remain under investigation, though neither is currently subject to travel restrictions.

Brian Cotter did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.