The remains of at least 117 dogs, many showing possible gunshot wounds, were found last week at a self-described “no-kill” rescue facility in California, officials said Monday, along with other disturbing discoveries.
Nearly 900 dogs were transferred to Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna, operated by Shannon Miranda, since January 2025, but only 116 adoptions have been confirmed, leaving more than 700 animals unaccounted for, Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal said during a news conference Monday updating the public on the animal cruelty and fraud investigation.
On Thursday, authorities recovered the remains of 117 dogs, with preliminary exams indicating many likely died from gunshot wounds. They also found 21 skulls, hundreds of bones, loose microchips and 600 dog collars nearby, Honsal said, describing the scene as a “mass grave.”
“The deepest was about 12 to 15 feet deep,” Honsal said. “The dogs were layered. You can tell that there was different times that the various dogs were put in.”
No charges have been filed or arrests made in the case.
The investigation began after two people reported suspected animal abuse and fraud at the nonprofit in April, and turned over eight dead dogs they said they recovered from the property, Honsal said. An initial search warrant on May 1 gathered evidence and found that many animals surrendered to the rescue were missing.
“The allegations in this case are that Miranda’s Rescue received money for animal placements, but later euthanized (the animals) and (they) were not adopted out or allowed to live out their lives in their sanctuary as represented,” Honsal said Monday.
As of last week, Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary remained open with about 50 dogs, along with cats and birds, still on the property, KTLA reported Thursday. Animal control officers and a veterinarian are visiting three times a week to monitor the animals, some of which are reportedly underweight.
Miranda, who has not been charged, defended the rescue in a June 18 statement, saying the public has received an “incomplete” and sometimes inaccurate picture of its work.
He said the sanctuary specializes in difficult-to-place animals and operates as a no-kill rescue, though euthanasia may be used in rare cases involving severe illness or safety risks.
“Whenever euthanasia has been necessary, I have notified local authorities in advance, even when told that reporting is not required. I believe it is important to maintain a clear record of these difficult decisions,” Miranda wrote.
The Independent contacted Miranda last week but did not receive a response. He was contacted again on Tuesday.
