117 dead dogs found at California 'no-kill' animal rescue, many with gunshot wounds

Authorities in northern California have unearthed the remains of 117 dogs at a sanctuary that claimed to be "no-kill." Many of the deceased animals showed signs of gunshot wounds, according to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office. The grim discovery was made while excavating open fields at Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna, California, as part of an investigation into potential fraud and animal cruelty.

Investigators were prompted to probe the sanctuary after receiving credible information regarding allegations of felony animal abuse, cruelty, fraud, and conspiracy. The investigation reportedly began after a neighbor admitted to entering the property without permission and digging up what they believed were buried dogs. The sheriff's office noted that the rescue had taken in 900 animals since the start of 2025, with only 116 adoptions recorded, leaving over 700 animals unaccounted for.

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have presented an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture

During the excavation, authorities found the intact remains of 117 dogs in two areas, along with an additional 21 dog skulls and hundreds of other bones. Seventy of the dog carcasses were X-rayed, revealing bullet fragments, and initial examinations suggest gunshot wounds as the cause of death for many. Investigators also discovered a barn believed to be where the dogs were killed. Loose microchips found at the site are being analyzed to identify the animals.

Shannon Miranda, the owner and operator of the sanctuary, has not been charged in connection with the probe. He previously stated in an online message that media coverage had presented an "incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture" of the facility. Miranda maintained that his sanctuary was a "no-kill rescue" and that other shelters often turn to them as a last resort for difficult-to-place animals.

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consider all the facts before reaching conclusions