top of page
Image by Mayron Oliveira

Heights Crematory Scandal:
Legal Help for the Families Impacted in Chicago Heights

Over 100 human remains were reportedly mishandled. If your loved one was affected, you may be entitled to compensation.

What Happened?

In April 2024, state regulators shut down Heights Crematory in Chicago Heights, IL, after disturbing reports surfaced of more than 100 human remains improperly stored—some found in trailers, bags, and bedsheets.

For many families, this wasn’t just a breach of trust—it was a denial of dignity at a time of mourning.

Elderly woman with gray hair bent over in grief, being consoled by someone with an arm around her.
Exterior view of Heights Crematory showing the sign and street address on a brick wall.

How We Can Help

If your loved one was sent to Heights Crematory and you’re now facing uncertainty, pain, or unanswered questions — we’re here to help.

We already have a lawsuit in progress and are representing families affected by this tragedy. Our team brings the legal experience, resources, and compassion needed to fight for:

  • Accountability from those responsible

  • Answers to what really happened

  • Compensation for emotional distress, negligence, and more

You don’t have to face this alone.

We’re ready to be your advocate.

pexels-pavel-danilyuk-7317734.jpg
pexels-cottonbro-6565235.jpg
pexels-alex-green-5700186_edited.jpg

Get In Touch

Feel free to contact us with any questions.

Attorney:
Karen Enright

Phone:
(312) 541-9700

E-mail:
kenright@costellaw.com

Contact Us

pexels-arina-krasnikova-6907779.jpg
CBS-Symbol.jpg

CBS News Chicago

Whistleblower speaks after Chicago Heights crematory shuts down for improperly storing bodies

Families from Illinois and Indiana are angry about the way their loved ones were being handled. The man who took the photos that led to a multi-state investigation said, "Something needed to be done." 

abc-7-news-chicago-2016-logo.jpg

ABC7 News Chicago

Chicago Heights crematory shut down after over 100 bodies found improperly stored in trailers

A south suburban crematory was shut down after over 100 bodies were found improperly stored in trailers.

Officials say bodies were found in sheets and bags in trailers at Heights Crematory, in Chicago Heights. The facility cremates remains sent to them by funeral homes.

bq86JyPW_400x400.jpg

NBC 5 Chicago

Suburban crematory accused of improperly storing 100 bodies in trailer under investigation

The Illinois Funeral Directors Association received a tip last month with photos showing bodies in a trailer on the site of Heights Crematory, 230 E. 11th St., prompting the state investigation, said Abdon Pallasch, a spokesperson for the Illinois Comptroller’s Office.

IN THE NEWS:
Heights Crematory Investigation

The facts are known.

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation launched an investigation, and the facility was ordered to stop accepting remains immediately.

pexels-pavel-danilyuk-7317734.jpg

In the News: Heights Crematory Investigation

The facts are known

 

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation launched an investigation, and the facility was ordered to stop accepting remains immediately.

Costello, Gilbreth & Murphy Ltd. logo

Address

Suite 3050
150 N Upper Wacker Dr.
Chicago, IL 60606
Get Directions

bottom of page