In a shocking case, Jonathan Gerlach, a 34-year-old from Ephrata, Pennsylvania, faces over 500 charges after authorities discovered more than 100 human remains in his home and storage unit. The investigation began after police noticed suspicious activity at Mount Moriah Cemetery, where numerous mausoleums and vaults had been broken into since November 2025.
Police arrested Gerlach on Tuesday (January 6) near the cemetery with a burlap bag containing mummified remains of two children, three skulls, and other bones. A subsequent search of his home revealed a gruesome scene described by Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse as “a horror movie come to life.” Investigators found skulls, long bones, mummified hands and feet, and decomposing torsos in various states of decay.
Gerlach allegedly targeted mausoleums and vaults containing older burials, using a crowbar to access the remains. He reportedly admitted to stealing about 30 sets of remains and showed police the graves he had disturbed. Authorities also discovered jewelry and a pacemaker among the stolen items, indicating some remains were more recent.
The case has left the community in shock, with neighbors expressing disbelief and concern over the motive behind Gerlach’s actions. Police are investigating whether any remains were sold or traded, and they are examining a Facebook group where Gerlach was reportedly tagged in photos holding a skull.
Gerlach is currently held on a $1 million bond and faces charges including abuse of a corpse, burglary, and desecration of graves. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to identify the remains and notify families. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office.
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