Bereaved passenger has his mother's ashes examined by airport security agent

‘Really helps the grieving process when you see someone open the urn, tear open the interior bag, and test human remains’

(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A bereaved passenger had his mother’s ashes examined by an airport security agent as he was travelling to spread them.

Daniel Mehler was travelling via Denver International Airport to spread the cremated remains of his mother Rexanne Bishop when a security agent is understood to have opened the urn containing the cremated remains.

TSA policy states that officers will not open a container with the remains, even if asked to by the passenger.

His brother David posted on Facebook about the incident.

“Hey Transport Security Administration!” he said.

“Thanks for desecrating my mom’s (Rexanne Bishop) remains this morning in the Denver international airport while my TSA Pre-Check approved brother (Daniel Mehler) travels to Aspen to spread her ashes!”

“Really helps the grieving process when you see someone open the urn, tear open the interior bag, and test human remains.

“For the record, my brother went through Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) AND San Antonio International Airport with her in this trip without incident. Both of those TSA agents inspected the urn and scanned it but handled the situation with tact and respect.”

He finished by calling the incident “totally unnacceptable”.

TSA policy states that cremated remains are fine to carry in checked bags, but there are special instructions for carry-on bags.

“We understand how painful losing a loved one is and we treat crematory remains with respect,” the security agency says on its website.

“Some airlines do not allow cremated remains in checked bags, so please check with your airline to learn more about possible restrictions.

“To facilitate screening, we suggest that you purchase a temporary or permanent crematory container made of a lighter weight material, such as wood or plastic.

“If the container is made of a material that generates an opaque image, TSA officers will not be able to clearly determine what is inside the container and the container will not be allowed.

“Out of respect for the deceased, TSA officers will not open a container, even if requested by the passenger.”

In a statement to Sun Online, a TSA spokesperson said: “TSA recognises the importance of screening human remains with the utmost respect and dignity.

“After reviewing video footage of the screening of these crematory remains, TSA determined that the correct protocols were not followed.

“It is TSA policy that under no circumstance should a crematory container be opened. TSA extends our sincere apology and deepest condolences to Mr Mehler.”

The Independent has asked TSA for comment.