A Pennsylvania man has been arrested after investigators discovered more than 100 skeletal remains connected to repeated break-ins at a historic cemetery.
Authorities say 34-year-old Jonathan Gerlach is accused of breaking into mausoleums and gravesites at Mt. Moriah Cemetery in Yeadon multiple times since Halloween. According to ABC 7, Gerlach was arrested on January 6 at the Delaware County cemetery while carrying a bag containing human remains, including children’s bones and skulls. Investigators also recovered additional skeletal remains from his vehicle and later discovered over 100 remains inside his home.
Authorities Say Remains Span Centuries — Including Infants
Tanner Rouse, the Delaware County District Attorney, described the scene as deeply disturbing. “Understand, some of these are 200 years old. Some obviously much newer — there’s one with a pacemaker still attached to the body,” Rouse said.
Rouse added that investigators believe some of the remains may belong to infants only months old, intensifying concerns for families who may now be searching for answers. “I grieve for those who are upset by this, who are going through it, who are trying to figure out if it is in fact their loved one or their child,” he said.
Authorities are now working to identify the remains and notify affected families.
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Disturbing Details Found Inside the Home
Investigators said the remains were discovered in various conditions inside Gerlach’s home. “Some were hanging as it were. Some were pieced together. Some were skulls on a shelf,” Rouse explained.
Officials say the remains appeared to be collected and displayed, raising additional questions about motive and intent.
Facebook Group Under Investigation
Authorities are also investigating a Facebook group titled “Human Bones and Skull Selling Group.” While it remains unclear whether Gerlach sold or purchased remains through the group, investigators confirmed there was a tagged photo of him holding a skull.
At this time, officials have not confirmed whether any remains were sold or how Gerlach acquired all of them. The investigation remains ongoing.
Suspect Held on $1 Million Bail as Investigation Continues
Jonathan Gerlach is currently being held on $1 million bail as law enforcement works to piece together the scope of the alleged crimes.
Officials say the process of identifying remains could take significant time, as forensic teams work carefully to preserve evidence and provide closure to families.