Investigators found maggots, unrefrigerated bodies at this Flint funeral home

FLINT, Mich. (WJBK) - Swanson Funeral Home in Flint has been shut down after owners were found in multiple violations of Michigan's Health and Occupational Codes. Investigators say deplorable conditions were found inside.

Maggots were found on the floor of the facility's garage and garage door.

Unrefrigerated human bodies were stored in the un-air-conditioned garage, some for more than 90 days and up to five months. The building smelled of decomposing bodies.

The preparation room was unsanitary and lacked equipment and supplies necessary for embalming.

Blood- and fluid-stained casket pillows were lying in the hallway.

"Michigan residents trust funeral home directors, owners, and their establishments to follow the law especially when dealing with the death of a loved one," said CSCL Director Julia Dale.  "We will continue to aggressively hold every funeral home in Michigan to the highest standards of public health and safety when providing final arrangements." 

Swanson could be subject to fines of up to $10,000 for each violation of the occupational code, in addition to continued suspension or revocation of the licenses, as determined by the Michigan Board of Mortuary Science Examiners.

The license of manager O'Neil Swanson II also was suspended.

The funeral home is located on Martin Luther King Avenue in Flint, which is about 75 miles north of Detroit.