'No-kill' animal sanctuary in California investigated after 117 dogs found in gruesome mass grave

Police have uncovered a mass burial site containing the bodies of 117 dogs at a California animal sanctuary that described itself as a "no-kill" rescue centre.

The grim discovery came after officers searched Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna, where investigators also recovered 21 dog skulls, hundreds of skeletal remains and X-ray evidence suggesting many of the animals had been shot.

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office believes it has identified a barn on the property where the dogs were allegedly killed.

Sheriff William Honsal said investigators were preparing for further shocking discoveries.

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"We are thinking worst-case scenario," he said.

"We are here to look and uncover whatever evidence that we can possibly find."

Deputies also discovered additional decomposing animal remains scattered across a nearby field.

Investigators are now attempting to trace around 730 dogs believed to have passed through the sanctuary.

Records show approximately 900 dogs were transferred to the facility since January 2025, but authorities have only been able to verify 116 successful adoptions.

More than 700 animals therefore remain unaccounted for.

Officers also recovered around 600 dog collars from the property, adding to concerns over the true number of animals that may have died.

The sanctuary marketed itself as a "no-kill" rescue and charged owners between $500 and several thousand dollars to rehome their pets.

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The investigation began on April 26 after the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office received an anonymous tip alleging animal cruelty, fraud and conspiracy at the facility run by Shannon Miranda.

Animal welfare campaigner Jennifer Raymond later entered the property with another activist and uncovered the bodies of eight dogs, each with apparent gunshot wounds to the head.

After handing the remains to police, detectives obtained a warrant to carry out a full search of the sanctuary.

Despite the investigation, the facility remains open and is currently home to around 50 dogs, as well as cats and birds.

Sheriff Honsal said California law prevents authorities from closing the sanctuary before criminal charges are brought.

"He's allowed to have animals on his ranch, on his sanctuary, and operate his business at this time," he said.

In a statement published on the sanctuary's website, Shannon Miranda defended the organisation and said it had spent more than 30 years rescuing animals rejected by other shelters.

"For more than 30 years, I have devoted my life to rescuing and caring for animals through Miranda's Rescue," he said.

Miranda insisted the sanctuary remained committed to no-kill principles, although he acknowledged euthanasia could be carried out in exceptional circumstances involving terminally ill animals or those posing a serious safety risk.

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