Pennsylvania Grave Robbery Uncovers 100 Skulls, Mummified Body Parts
In a shocking discovery, police in Pennsylvania uncovered a disturbing collection of human remains linked to a series of grave robberies at Mount Moriah Cemetery. The investigation began when bones and skulls were spotted in a vehicle near an abandoned part of the cemetery. This led authorities to a basement that contained over 100 human skulls and various body parts.
Pennsylvania Grave Robbery Investigation
Officers arrested Jonathan Christ Gerlach, 34, after a months-long investigation into break-ins at the cemetery. Since early November, at least 26 mausoleums and vaults had been forcibly opened. The cemetery, located in Yeadon, is known as the largest abandoned burial ground in the U.S., housing approximately 150,000 grave sites.
Details of the Discovery
During their search, investigators found:
- Over 100 human skulls
- Mummified hands and feet
- Two decomposing torsos
- Jewelry believed to belong to the deceased
Some remains were found hanging, while others were scattered and poorly organized. Authorities mentioned that a pacemaker was still attached to one of the bodies.
Impact of the Crimes
The investigation progressed after officers connected Gerlach to the burglaries through his vehicle’s license plate. The break-ins primarily targeted sealed vaults and mausoleums containing older burials. Gerlach, armed with a crowbar, was apprehended as he returned to his car. A burlap bag found on him contained the mummified remains of two children and several skulls.
During interrogation, Gerlach confessed to taking around 30 sets of human remains and even identified the graves from which he had stolen.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
As a result of his actions, Gerlach faces 100 counts of abuse of a corpse and receiving stolen property. He has also been charged with desecrating a public monument, desecrating a venerated object, desecrating a historic burial place, burglary, and theft. Gerlach is currently held on a $1 million bond, with no legal representation publicly identified at this time.
The Delaware County District Attorney, Tanner Rouse, expressed the complexity of the case, noting the lack of a reasonable explanation for Gerlach’s actions. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the situation.
