Investigators uncover 117 dog remains at California sanctuary amid missing-animal probe

Humboldt County sheriff's investigators have uncovered the remains of 117 dogs on the grounds of Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna, California. The dogs were found in two excavated areas of the 50-acre property, with many showing evidence of gunshot wounds, according to Sheriff William Honsal. In addition to the full carcasses, authorities recovered 21 dog skulls, hundreds of other bones and six loose microchips at a separate dig site.

The investigation, which began in April after a neighbor reported possible buried dogs, has also identified about 600 dog collars and more than 700 animals that remain unaccounted for. The sanctuary, which the owner describes as a "no-kill" facility, has taken in roughly 900 animals since early 2025 but recorded only 116 adoptions.

"Consider all the facts before reaching conclusions," the shelter's owner, Shannon Miranda, said in a public statement prior to the discovery.

Sheriff's officials said 70 of the bodies were X-rayed and confirmed to contain bullet fragments, indicating gunfire as a primary cause of death for many of the dogs. Investigators also located a barn on the property that they believe was used for killing the animals.

While the remains are being examined and microchip data analyzed to identify the dogs, no criminal charges have been filed against Miranda, who maintains that euthanasia at the sanctuary is performed only in rare, medically necessary cases. The sheriff's office has asked the public to be patient as the complex probe continues.