Family Left Hanging After Someone Else Is Buried In Burial Plot

MIDLAND, TX -- In the midst of dealing with the loss of their loved one, a Midland family was surprised to know someone was already buried in the burial plot they had already purchased.

According to his obituary Jose Portillo, 86, passed away on October 29th. When his family attempted to bury him next to his wife Lucia they discovered someone was buried in that spot.

In order to help the family in this unprecedented situation, the Midland County Commissioners Court offered a solution. Instead of giving the Portillo family the spot they originally purchased, the commissioners decided Mr. Portillo can be buried on the other side of his wife.

There is someone currently buried next to Mrs. Portillo, but they will be moved. According to County Judge Terry Johnson, the court has attempted to find any living family members of the deceased individual with no luck. The body will be moved to another location of the cemetery. 

“I hate that it happened," said Judge Johnson. "It’s not a good situation, but I’m glad we were able to resolve it, and I appreciate the court coming to a decision to make it right, and I appreciate the family allowing us to make this offer and accept it."

As of right now, there is no set date for when Mr. Portillo will be laid to rest.