News Summary
A traveler at Tampa International Airport attempted to pass through U.S. Customs with suspected human remains hidden in their luggage. Initially declaring 10 cigars, officials discovered prohibited items, including bones and part of a human skull wrapped in foil. The traveler claimed the remains were intended for rituals, prompting U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to seize and destroy the items for public safety. This bizarre incident raises concerns amid ongoing investigations into the authenticity of the remains and the traveler’s actions.
Tampa, Florida – A traveler at Tampa International Airport was caught attempting to pass through U.S. Customs with suspected human remains in their luggage on September 18, 2025. This unusual incident was reported by Christie Zizo, Digital Editor.
Upon entering customs, the traveler initially declared 10 cigars. However, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officials discovered more than just the cigars. In addition to the declared items, agents uncovered prohibited plants and a foil-wrapped duffel bag containing what appeared to be human remains. The items included several bones, and at least part of a human skull was wrapped in foil.
The traveler claimed that the items were intended for rituals. Due to significant health risks associated with the remains, CBP officials seized and destroyed the items to prevent any potential hazards.
Carlos Martel, director of field operations for CBP, addressed the bizarre find, emphasizing the serious nature of the situation. The investigation into the authenticity of the remains is ongoing, but as of now, no disciplinary details regarding the traveler have been released.
This incident is not the first unusual discovery at Tampa International Airport. In 2023, a passenger faced repercussions for attempting to smuggle an emotional support boa constrictor through airport security. Furthermore, over 1,500 firearms were confiscated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at airports nationwide in the first four months of 2024, with Tampa International ranking among the top 10 airports for such confiscations.
Despite this recent incident, Tampa International Airport was rated as the third-best airport for passenger satisfaction among large airports in September 2025. This ranking highlights the airport’s ongoing efforts to maintain a positive experience for travelers despite occasional, peculiar occurrences.
Travelers are reminded to adhere to customs regulations and declare all items properly when entering the country. The presence of human remains raises serious health concerns, prompting stringent measures by CBP to ensure public safety and prevent the entry of hazardous materials.
More information may be released as the investigation continues, and authorities urge anyone with additional details concerning the case to come forward.
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Additional Resources
- New York Post: Suspected human remains found in traveler’s luggage
- Click Orlando: Apparent human remains found at airport
- WFLA: Business owner accused of selling human bones
- Washington Post: Maryland crematory horrors
- Google Search: Customs regulations human remains
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
