The Office of the Chief Health Inspector is making an urgent public appeal to locate the relatives of three men whose bodies have remained unclaimed at Barnes Funeral Home for months, warning that a 14-day deadline is now in effect before the state proceeds with burial.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs issued the appeal on April 23, identifying the deceased as La-Shaune Tunsha Charles, who died on October 19, 2025; Jeffery Cornelius, who passed on March 8, 2026; and Rupert Martin, who died on April 1, 2026. Despite the passage of time, no relatives have come forward to claim the bodies or make funeral arrangements.
The three men are currently being held at Barnes Funeral Home on Irwing Barnes Close, off American Road. Managing Director Jessica Barnes is coordinating arrangements for any family members who come forward.
Health officials are urging relatives to act swiftly. If no next of kin are identified within the 14-day window, the Government will proceed with interment at a public cemetery. Authorities have also made clear that once the state carries out the burials, no legal recourse will be available afterward.
Anyone with information that could help identify or contact relatives of the three men is encouraged to reach out to Barnes Funeral Home directly. Officials have emphasised their commitment to ensuring the deceased are laid to rest with dignity.
