Woman keeps nephew's body at home for 15 days due to lack of funds in Ecuador

In Guayaquil, Ecuador, a distressing situation unfolds as 70-year-old Victoria Naranjo has been unable to bury her nephew, Carlos Zea, for nearly two weeks. The body has been kept in the living room of her home in the city's suburb, creating a somber and unsanitary environment.

The decomposing remains, sealed in a black bag and tape to mitigate the odor, have attracted flies, posing a significant health risk to Naranjo and her neighbors. Concerned residents have offered their homes for Naranjo to stay in, fearing for her well-being and the potential for illness due to the conditions.

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Because the mother and my other nephew fled with the money that was already for burying the deceased.

Naranjo stated that her sister and another nephew absconded with the funds designated for the funeral. She recounted her attempt to arrange a burial at the Ángel María Canals cemetery, where she claims alleged extortionists demanded $300 for a burial vault. This alleged demand, coupled with her financial constraints, has prevented her from giving her nephew a proper burial.

On the morning of August 6, 2026, Naranjo reported that the Public Company for Development, Social Action, and Education (DASE) had offered assistance for the burial of the young man, who passed away on July 24, 2026, from natural causes.

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alleged extortionists demanded the payment of 300 dollars in exchange for access to a vault.