Thieves Steal Cancer Patient's Remains from Daughter's Home

Burglars broke in and took only the urn containing the ashes of the homeowner's father, leaving other valuables untouched.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:39pm

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Police in Pueblo, Colorado, are investigating an unusual home burglary in which thieves broke into a woman's home and stole only an urn containing the remains of her father, who had recently passed away from cancer. The homeowner, Geraldine Sierra, is pleading for the return of her father's ashes, saying he was her "best friend" and "hero."

Why it matters

This case highlights the emotional and personal toll that such a targeted theft can have on a grieving family. The burglars appear to have known the layout of the home and specifically targeted the urn, leaving other valuables untouched, suggesting this was a premeditated and callous crime.

The details

According to police, the incident occurred on January 21 at Sierra's home in Pueblo. Security cameras captured two unknown men entering the home through a back door and then leaving with the urn. Sierra returned home to find the house undisturbed except for the missing urn containing her father's remains.

  • The burglary occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on January 21, 2026.
  • Sierra's father, Patrick, passed away last year after a battle with cancer.

The players

Geraldine Sierra

The homeowner whose father's urn was stolen from her home.

Patrick

Sierra's father, who passed away last year after a battle with cancer.

Pueblo Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the burglary and theft of the urn.

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What they’re saying

“He was like my best friend. Someone that I talked to every single day up until he passed away. You know, he was my hero. He was my everything, honestly. When he passed away, everything just stopped.”

— Geraldine Sierra

“Return my father's ashes,”

— Geraldine Sierra

“I just wish somebody would bring him back home.”

— Geraldine Sierra

What’s next

Detectives continue to investigate the case and are following up on leads. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Pueblo Police Department.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking theft highlights the emotional trauma that can result from the loss of a loved one's remains, and the importance of respecting the sanctity of a family's grieving process. The community is rallying behind Geraldine Sierra in the hopes that her father's ashes will be returned to her.