Authorities in Fortuna, California, have uncovered 117 canine remains at Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary. Many of these animals, found during an investigation into alleged animal cruelty and fraud, showed signs of gunshot wounds. Investigators also located roughly 600 dog collars and additional bone fragments across the 50-acre property.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office launched the probe in April after receiving reports of potential criminal activity. Records indicated that the sanctuary had taken in 900 animals since the beginning of 2025, but only 116 had been adopted, leaving over 700 unaccounted for. Preliminary X-rays of 70 bodies revealed bullet fragments, and officials identified a barn on the site as a suspected location where the killings occurred.
Shelter owner Shannon Miranda has maintained that the facility operates as a no-kill rescue and has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement provided before the recent discoveries, Miranda asserted that the facility only resorts to euthanasia in cases of terminal illness or severe danger to others. He has not been charged with any crimes, and the sheriff’s office continues to process the extensive evidence before deciding whether to recommend prosecution.
