Investigation Advances at Plenitud Crematorium in Ciudad Juarez
Ciudad Juarez, February 2, 2026 – The investigation into the Plenitud crematorium case in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, continues to progress, with authorities announcing significant advancements in body identification. The case originated on June 26, 2025, when 386 uncremated bodies were discovered at the facility located in the Granjas Polo Gamboa neighborhood.
According to information released by the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE), 185 bodies have been successfully identified so far. Of these, 181 families have already been notified of the identification of their loved ones, with the remaining four notifications expected in the coming hours.
Body Deliveries and Legal Actions Underway
In a crucial step towards restitution for the affected families, 172 bodies have been released to their respective relatives. This represents a significant milestone in the ongoing process of returning the deceased to their families and providing support to the victims.
The discovery has also led to legal repercussions, with 123 families filing formal complaints with the District Attorney’s Office for the Northern Zone. These complaints allege fraud against those responsible for the crematorium’s operations.
Forensic Investigation and Victim Support Continue
The investigative efforts are being carried out continuously by specialized personnel from the Directorate of Expert Services and Forensic Sciences, as well as the Public Ministry of the Specialized Unit for the Investigation of Crimes Against Peace, Personal Security, and Public Faith.
Complementing these efforts, the State Victim Assistance Center (Ceave) is providing comprehensive support to those affected by the tragedy. The FGE, in coordination with Expert Services, the Forensic Medical Service (Semefo), Ceave, and the District Attorney’s Office for the Northern Zone, has reaffirmed its commitment to uninterrupted work.
The primary objective remains the full identification of all discovered individuals, alongside offering psychological support, timely information, and legal advice to families who request it.
Genetic Analysis and Future Stages
As part of the identification process, 110 samples have been dispatched to specialized laboratories of the National Search Commission, with results anticipated shortly. Furthermore, genetic DNA profiles of the deceased are expected to be available by mid-year. This will enable cross-referencing with family members’ DNA to definitively confirm the identity of each victim.
This ongoing investigation underscores the commitment of Chihuahua authorities to bring closure to the families affected by the Plenitud crematorium incident and to ensure justice is served.
