Some of the remains were hundreds of years old, while others were alarmingly recent. One set even contained a pacemaker, underscoring how modern and historic graves were allegedly targeted.
100 Human Skulls: Emotional Toll on Communities
Beyond the sheer number of skulls and skeleton fragments, prosecutors emphasized the emotional devastation caused by the case. Authorities believe remains of infants—possibly only months old—were among those recovered.
“I grieve for those who are upset by this,” Rouse said. “Who are trying to figure out if it is, in fact, their loved one or their child.”
The uncertainty surrounding the identities of the remains has left families fearing the worst, especially those with relatives buried at Mount Moriah Cemetery.
Mount Moriah Cemetery: Skeleton Trail
Gerlach was arrested Tuesday after investigators observed him leaving Mount Moriah Cemetery carrying a burlap bag. Inside, police allege, were mummified remains of two small children, three skulls, and additional bones.
