PUEBLO, CO – August 26, 2025 – The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is providing an update on the ongoing criminal investigation into Davis Mortuary in Pueblo, following the discovery of improperly stored human remains last week. The investigation, which is being conducted in collaboration with the Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office, and the 10th Judicial District Attorney's Office.
CBI agents have executed search warrants at the homes of Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter and his brother, Chris Cotter, who are listed as joint owners of Davis Mortuary. The mortuary was issued a summary suspension of its license to operate by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) on August 20, 2025, after inspectors found several bodies in various stages of decomposition.
The preliminary processing of the Davis Mortuary building has been completed by investigators, and the building remains locked and secured, with access restricted to law enforcement.
A total of 24 bodies from Davis Mortuary along with multiple containers of bones and multiple containers of probable human tissue representing an unknown number of deceased individuals have been respectfully transferred to the El Paso County Coroner's Office for attempted identification.
The CBI has not questioned Brian and Chris Cotter, as both men have retained legal counsel. No arrests have been made at this time. Neither man is considered a flight risk. The investigation is ongoing and will continue to determine what charges are appropriate.
To address common questions from the public and media, the CBI has created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on its website. The FAQ will be regularly updated as new information becomes available.
The CBI has established a dedicated victim assistance line at (719) 257-3359 and an email at CBITips@state.co.us for families who may have used the services of Davis Mortuary. The CBI is also encouraging families to fill out a questionnaire to assist with the investigative process.
As of 12:00 p.m. today the CBI has received 843 tips and 336 people have filled out the victim information questionnaire.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Daily updates will cease after today