The family of a woman killed in a murder-suicide incident in Las Vegas has filed a lawsuit against a funeral home for alleged negligence after their loved one was accidentally cremated.
Loren Chavez, 41, died after being shot by her husband last September. The family entrusted Davis Funeral Homes & Memorial Park with her final arrangements, intending to hold an open-casket funeral followed by a burial nearby.
However, a distressing situation arose when Chavez’s parents arrived at the funeral home to deliver her clothing, only to discover that she was not listed in the system.
A subsequent call from the funeral home summoned them back to the premises due to an “emergency.” They were then informed that an employee’s error had resulted in Chavez’s accidental cremation.
The family’s attorney, Christian Morris, characterized the incident as “unforgivable,” emphasizing the multiple failures in adhering to the funeral home’s own policies to distinguish between bodies designated for burial versus cremation.
The lawsuit accuses various employees of neglecting their duties, leading to immense emotional suffering for the family. Chavez’s son sought counseling to cope with the trauma.
Not only does the lawsuit seek financial compensation exceeding $15,000, but it also underscores the profound violation of trust the family experienced.
Chavez’s sister, Delia Salcido, spoke about the significant impact, saying that the family’s opportunity to bid a proper farewell and find closure was stolen from them.
Mike Wilfong, the general manager of Davis Funeral Homes and Memorial Park, expressed his commitment to addressing the situation.
