Story perspectives

Humboldt Search Finds 117 Dogs in Mass Grave.

6/28/2026

Center

Sheriff Uncovers Graves

A second search of Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna revealed mass graves with more than 100 dog bodies bearing bullet evidence.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office executed a second search warrant at Miranda’s Rescue, recovering 117 intact canine remains.
Forensic veterinarians and the U.S. Department of Agriculture X-rayed 70 dogs, preliminarily finding gunshot deaths.
Sheriff William Honsal said the investigation stays active, with several agencies reviewing evidence before charges.

Left

Sheriff Investigates

Authorities suspect the self-described no-kill sanctuary killed dogs to create space for additional, funded adoptions.
Sheriff William Honsal said the investigation into animal cruelty, fraud and possible conspiracy is still in its early stages.
Investigators are using the dogs’ microchips to match each animal to its ownership records.
Founder Shannon Miranda said the sanctuary cares for animals and employs euthanasia to protect staff.

History

Historical Context

Federal animal-welfare scrutiny has grown since high-profile abuse claims surfaced in 2018 when former handlers accused musher John Baker of mistreating sled dogs, a charge he denied. The controversy spurred broader investigations, and today Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are examining Shannon Miranda’s Rescue, echoing the earlier push that led to Baker’s third-place finish in the 2002 Iditarod.

1 of 3

Sheriff Uncovers Graves

A second search of Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna revealed mass graves with more than 100 dog bodies bearing bullet evidence.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office executed a second search warrant at Miranda’s Rescue, recovering 117 intact canine remains.
Forensic veterinarians and the U.S. Department of Agriculture X-rayed 70 dogs, preliminarily finding gunshot deaths.
Sheriff William Honsal said the investigation stays active, with several agencies reviewing evidence before charges.

1 / 3