Downard Funeral Home

Downard Funeral Home, once an established funeral service provider in Pocatello, Idaho, has a deeply troubled history that ultimately led to its closure and demolition. Located at 241 North Garfield Avenue, the funeral home was a familiar fixture in the community, serving families in their times of loss for many years. However, the facility became the center of a shocking scandal in September 2021 when Pocatello police raided the premises following reports of foul odors. During the search, officers discovered a dozen decomposing bodies improperly stored, along with 61 jarred fetuses and unidentified ashes. The gruesome findings led to criminal charges against the former owner, Lance Robert Peck, who faced 63 misdemeanor counts. Each charge carried a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, and potential felony charges were also anticipated. In the wake of the raid, the funeral home ceased operations. The property was purchased by the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 for $500,000, as the land was deemed unsuitable for instructional use due to the building's sordid past. The school district planned to convert the site into a parking lot for Pocatello High School, which lacked sufficient student parking. The parking lot would provide approximately 110 new spaces. In March 2023, the building was fully demolished, erasing the physical structure that had been the scene of such tragedy and misconduct. The demolition marked the end of Downard Funeral Home's physical presence, leaving behind a legacy marred by legal battles and public outrage. Affected families filed lawsuits against the former owner, and the community grappled with the betrayal of trust that had occurred. Today, no funeral services are offered at the former location. Families seeking funeral or cremation services in the Pocatello area are encouraged to reach out to other reputable local providers. The story of Downard Funeral Home serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of regulation and accountability in the funeral industry.