Deaths down but Maryland seeks to keep housing ‘COVID-19 remains’ in makeshift morgue in downtown Baltimore parking garage

A makeshift morgue housed in a downtown Baltimore parking garage that put a harsh spotlight on a massive backlog in cases at the state medical examiners’ office is poised to remain in business until January to accommodate “COVID-19 remains.” The Maryland Department of Health turned to the makeshift morgue space during the pandemic’s peak in January, spending about $30,000 a month, and officials have asked the state spending board to approve paying an additional $180,000 in rent during its meeting Wednesday.