News Summary
Authorities in Shreveport, Louisiana are investigating the discovery of stillborn baby Kendrell Dewayne Xavier Malone’s remains found at a laundry facility. Initially mistaken for a doll, the remains were improperly handled after a funeral service. The incident has prompted inquiries into the practices of the involved funeral home, given previous complaints against them. Shreveport Police and the Texas Funeral Service Commission are now involved in assessing how such mishandling occurred and ensuring the remains are returned to the family.
Shreveport, Louisiana – An investigation is underway following the discovery of the remains of a stillborn baby found wrapped in linens at Alsco Uniforms in Shreveport. Employees at the facility initially mistook the remains for a doll before realizing the tragic truth on Tuesday morning. The Shreveport Police Department has described this discovery as “deeply distressing” and is now looking into the circumstances that led to the baby’s remains being mishandled.
The deceased infant, identified as Kendrell Dewayne Xavier Malone, was stillborn on May 3 in Dallas and had a funeral service at Golden Gate Funeral Home on May 17. Following the service, the remains were supposed to be cremated, but in a somber error, they were accidentally transported along with soiled linens to the laundry facility in Louisiana. When the remains were found, they were in a state of heavy decomposition, described as nearly “mummified,” and there was a strong odor of embalming fluid indicating embalming had likely occurred.
Shreveport Police have stated that, while the circumstances surrounding the discovery are tragic, they do not currently suspect foul play. Instead, the incident appears to stem from negligence on the part of the funeral home or a related cleaning service. In response to these events, the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office has taken custody of the remains and is working to ensure they are returned to the family.
Ongoing Investigations
The Texas Funeral Service Commission has been notified and is also opening an investigation into the improper handling of the remains. This inquiry will aim to determine how the situation occurred and whether further action will be needed regarding the practices of the involved funeral home. If any violations are found, the Commission has stated it will take appropriate enforcement actions.
Concerns Over Funeral Home Practices
Golden Gate Funeral Home has faced previous complaints concerning the mishandling of remains, bringing about concerns regarding their practices and the services they provide. The attorney representing families against the funeral home emphasized this pattern of complaints, highlighting that these incidents are noteworthy in the context of the recent discovery.
Community and Family Response
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith has extended condolences to the family affected by this heartbreaking situation. The discovery of Kendrell’s remains not only invokes sadness but also raises questions about the protocols followed by funeral services and their accountability in such sensitive matters.
The incident emphasizes the importance of ethical and respectful treatment of remains, particularly in the wake of such a profound loss for the family. The ongoing investigation may shed light on best practices and necessary reforms to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Summary
The discovery of a stillborn baby’s remains at a laundry facility in Shreveport has opened an investigation by local police and state authorities. The infant, Kendrell Dewayne Xavier Malone, was supposed to be cremated after a funeral service, but instead, the remains were mishandled. Both the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office and the Texas Funeral Service Commission are involved in addressing the implications of this incident.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Embalmed Infant Discovered at Shreveport Dry Cleaners
Tragic Discovery of Stillborn Infant at Shreveport Laundry
Investigation Launched After Stillborn Infant Discovered in Shreveport
Former Police Chief’s Audacious Prison Escape
Shreveport Mother Arrested for Child Neglect
Vigil Planned for Brandon Davenport Amid Police Violence Concerns
Trio of Escaped Inmates Recaptured in New Orleans Jailbreak
Major Jail Break in New Orleans: 7 Escapees Captured
Shreveport Incident: Son Stabs Mother to Death While She Sleeps
Shreveport Woman Arrested for Threatening High School Teacher
Additional Resources
- Fox 4 News
- Wikipedia: Funeral Service
- NBC News
- Google Search: funeral home negligence
- KSLA
- Google Scholar: funeral service practices
- WFAA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: funeral home
- WOWT
- Google News: funeral service negligence
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
