Cops raid three funeral homes over ‘concerns for care of the deceased’ in probe involving ‘heartbroken families’

COPS have raided three funeral homes after concerns were raised about their “care for the deceased”.

Humberside Police said they had received a call on Wednesday evening about Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, which runs premises in Hull and the surrounding area.

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Officers raced to the Legacy Funeral Directors on both Anlaby Road and Hessle Road in Hull at around 3am on Thursday, with locals reporting a heavy police presence at the scene.

Cordons have since been set up at three sites and a special phone line has been launched for “heartbroken and devastated” families who may have concerns.

Inquiries are now ongoing into whether any criminal offences have been committed.

Det Ch Supt Simon Gawthorpe said: “Whilst we are in the very early stages of our investigation, I completely understand this information will be of concern to a number of families and individuals who have lost loved ones and have utilised the services of this business.

“I would encourage anyone to please call us, as we are very mindful of the distress this may cause.”

The coroner, Hull City Council and East Riding Council have been informed.

In a Facebook post, Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy said she was in touch with the police.

She said: “I am extremely shocked to have been made aware that an investigation is taking place into a funeral directors in my constituency.

“My heart goes out to all of the worried family members and loved ones.

“I can only imagine the distress and devastation that you will be feeling.”

According to their website, Legacy Independent Funeral Directors is a family-run business, taking “great pride in offering professional services and a personal touch from start to finish… offering an exceptional level of compassion and care to every client who comes through the doors”.

It has been a member of the National Association of Funeral Directors since 2011.

The website added: “This means we adhere to their strict codes of practice, and are passionate about ensuring your family member or friend is looked after with the highest levels of professional care.

“We have a profound belief that a person must be treated with reverence and dignity between their passing and their funeral, and we always go the extra mile to deliver on this principle.”

Police called for people to “refrain from speculation” about what had happened.

Det Ch Supt Gawthorpe said: “At the core of this investigation will potentially be heartbroken and devastated families and loved ones and we want to provide them with the consideration and support they need and are fully entitled to.”

Anyone with concerns can call 0800 051 4674.

Police have established a direct telephone line for anyone who is worried or wants to speak to them about Legacy Independent Funeral Directors.