Detroit Woman Claims Hospital Lost Prosthetic Leg, Dentures, and Necklace Containing Mother’s Ashes After Surgery

DETROIT, MICHIGAN — A Detroit woman is demanding answers from Harper Hutzel Hospital after claiming that several of her most personal and irreplaceable belongings — including her prosthetic leg, dentures, clothing, and a necklace containing her mother’s ashes — disappeared while she was undergoing a surgical procedure.

The patient, whose identity has not been released publicly, says she awoke from a leg amputation surgery to find that not only had her surgery been completed, but nearly everything she brought to the hospital was gone.

In a now-viral report shared by Crime News Detroit, the woman recounted her shock upon realizing that even sentimental items were missing. “I woke up, and my prosthetic leg wasn’t there, my dentures were gone, and the necklace I never take off — the one with my mom’s ashes — had vanished,” she said.

Missing Items After Surgery Spark Outrage

According to the woman, she had checked into the hospital with her personal items secured, including her prosthetic leg and a small pouch containing sentimental jewelry. When she regained consciousness after surgery, those belongings had disappeared — along with her clothing and other essentials.

The loss of her mother’s ashes, she said, has been the most devastating part. “That necklace was all I had left of her. To lose it in a hospital, where I should’ve been safe, is heartbreaking,” she told local reporters.

Family members are now calling for accountability, describing the incident as “beyond unacceptable.” They’ve contacted hospital administrators but claim that responses have been vague and slow.

Hospital’s Response and Ongoing Investigation

A spokesperson for Harper Hutzel Hospital, which is part of the Detroit Medical Center (DMC) network, told reporters that they are “aware of the incident and are conducting a thorough internal investigation.”

However, hospital officials have not yet clarified whether security footage is being reviewed or if law enforcement has been contacted to assist with the search for the missing items.

“We take all patient concerns seriously and are investigating thoroughly to determine what happened,” the hospital said in a brief statement.

Community Reaction and Questions About Accountability

The story has sparked widespread outrage across Detroit, especially among older residents and patient advocacy groups, who say the situation raises serious questions about hospital security and patient property handling procedures.

“This isn’t just about missing belongings — it’s about trust,” said a local elder rights advocate. “If hospitals can’t safeguard a patient’s personal and sentimental items, it undermines confidence in the entire care system.”

Critics online have also noted that Harper Hutzel Hospital has faced previous scrutiny over patient care and administrative oversight, adding pressure to ensure a transparent investigation.

Family Seeking Justice

The woman and her family are now exploring legal options and say they won’t stop until they get answers. “It’s not just about the money,” a relative told Crime News Detroit. “This was about dignity, respect, and something sacred that can’t be replaced.”

Local authorities have not yet confirmed whether a formal police report has been filed, but advocates are urging a full investigation to determine whether the items were misplaced or stolen.

Ongoing Public Concern

The case continues to gain traction on social media, with hundreds of comments expressing disbelief and anger. Many are calling for stronger protocols around patient property management, especially in surgical and long-term care facilities.

As of Friday, hospital officials say the internal review remains underway, and no recovered items have been reported.

Residents across Detroit are waiting for answers — and for accountability.

For continued updates on this developing story, stay with napervillelocal.com for verified reports and statements from both the patient and hospital administration.