A California animal shelter that described itself as a "no-kill" rescue is under investigation after authorities uncovered the remains of 117 dogs, many with apparent gunshot wounds, buried across its property. Investigators searching the 50-acre Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna, northern California, also recovered 21 dog skulls, hundreds of animal bones and nearly 600 dog collars, according to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office.
The investigation began in April following allegations of animal cruelty, fraud and conspiracy linked to the shelter. Authorities launched the probe after receiving credible information and reports that a neighbour had discovered what appeared to be buried dogs on the property, BBC reported.
During the excavation, officials uncovered multiple burial sites containing dogs in varying stages of decomposition. X-rays conducted on 70 of the recovered remains revealed bullet fragments, with preliminary findings indicating that many of the animals died from gunshot wounds.
Just horrifying. Dog mass grave found in California:
— Anna D. West 🇺🇸 (@SlimWiggy) June 28, 2026
Authorities have discovered the remains of 117 dogs, many dead of gunshot wounds, at a supposed "no kill" shelter in Humboldt County, CA.
The poor dogs, including some remains in advanced stages of decomposition, were found… pic.twitter.com/ab5L5MpWp6
Investigators also identified a barn on the property that they believe may have been used to kill the dogs. Several loose microchips were recovered near the burial sites, while most of the deceased animals were found to be microchipped. Authorities are analysing the chips to establish the identities of the dogs.
The probe has also raised questions about the shelter's operations. Investigators said Miranda's Rescue had taken in around 900 animals since the beginning of 2025 but recorded only 116 adoptions, leaving more than 700 animals unaccounted for.
Shelter owner Shannon Miranda has denied wrongdoing, insisting the facility is a genuine "no-kill" rescue. In a statement issued before the latest discoveries, Miranda said media reports had presented an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture of the organisation.
Miranda maintained that euthanasia was carried out only in exceptional circumstances, such as when an animal was terminally ill or posed a serious and ongoing threat to people or other animals, and never simply to free up space.
Authorities have stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and that no criminal charges have been filed so far. The sheriff's office said the case involves a significant amount of evidence and, if sufficient proof of animal cruelty, fraud or other offences is established, the findings will be submitted to prosecutors for consideration of criminal charges.
