What Happens to Homeless People When They Die and No One Buries Them

The question of what happens to a homeless person who dies without anyone to bury them is a challenging and often overlooked issue. This situation can have significant implications, both for individuals and local communities.

The Process of Decomposition and Its Consequences

Without burial or cremation, a homeless person's remains may decompose in the elements. Depending on the time of year, the process can be quite rapid. In the summer, rigor mortis sets in quickly, and the body begins to decompose (Figure 1). As decomposition progresses, flies lay eggs, and maggots, born from these eggs, consume the rotting flesh. Along with flies, other insects such as cockroaches, ants, rats, stray dogs, and cats often aid in the decomposition process. This scenario not only poses a risk to public health but also to the environment.

Role of Local Authorities and Community Action

In many countries, such as the United Kingdom, local governments and community volunteers often play a crucial role in the post-mortem disposition of homeless individuals if no relatives or friends are available to make arrangements. This process can involve several steps:

In areas without any identified relatives or friends, local authorities will typically intervene. The body will be identified, reported to relevant authorities, and then removed. The remains are often dealt with in one of two ways:

1. Burial

Homeless individuals who are discovered after death may be buried in a common grave at the expense of the state or local government. This practice is often preferred as it is more sanitary and less harmful to the environment than leaving the body to decompose on its own (Figure 2).

2. Cremation

In the UK, if burial is not an option, cremation is often the default method. The local government covers the cost, and the ashes are often kept in a communal storage facility such as a shelf at a crematorium. These ashes are typically stored indefinitely unless someone wishes to claim and dispose of them (Figure 3).

The Significance of Proper Disposal

Proper post-mortem disposal of homeless individuals is not just a matter of hygiene. It also addresses significant legal and societal concerns. For instance, in the absence of a proper burial, there is a risk of biohazard exposure to the community and the environment. Additionally, the issue highlights the broader challenges of social care and support for the homeless population.

Conclusion

While the death of a homeless person without burial or cremation can be a difficult and overlooked issue, it underscores the importance of providing proper care and support to all individuals, regardless of their housing status. Understanding and implementing proper post-mortem practices can not only help prevent public health issues but also ensure that every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Keywords: homeless death, post-mortem disposition, body disposal