TAMPA, Fla. — After conducting a ground-penetrating radar search for graves in a grassy field next to Marti Colon Cemetery, 10 Investigates has learned the Chabad of East Pasco and New Tampa, Inc. on Wednesday withdrew an application to rezone a parcel of land believed to contain unmarked graves.
“We're aligned with what the community wants, which is to preserve the historic cemetery of Marti-Colon,” Rabbi Mendy Yarmush said.
Chabad of East Pasco and New Tampa, Inc. submitted a rezoning request with hopes of establishing a cemetery for the Jewish community. However, those familiar with the area say it’s likely the land already has burials.
"We know the history. The city knows the history," Aileen Henderson of The Cemetery Society said.
Yarmush would not share the results of the ground-penetrating radar study but said it would be best for the city of Tampa to purchase the property.
"We hope that it can be preserved," he said.
"I am so very grateful that they did the right thing and are respecting the bodies that are buried there on that property," Henderson said. "The city needs to step up, do the right thing and save the cemetery."
This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available.
Emerald Morrow is an investigative reporter with 10 Tampa Bay. Like her on Facebook and follow her on X. You can also email her at emorrow@10tampabay.com.