The discovery of a suspected “extermination” site containing human remains and ovens in Mexico has sparked fears for families searching for missing loved ones.

Mexican authorities are investigating the site in Jalisco state, initially found last week by volunteers. The site is suspected to have been used by the New Generation Jalisco Cartel.

The site contained cremation ovens, bone fragments, hundreds of shoes, clothing, and children’s toys.

Luz Toscano, a volunteer, told BBC News that people recognized items potentially belonging to their missing relatives.

The ranch near Teuchitlán was previously raided last September, but authorities apparently failed to find or disclose the human remains at that time.

During the prior raid, 10 people were arrested, two hostages were freed, and a body was found wrapped in plastic.

This week’s search by authorities also uncovered nearly 100 shell casings.

The remains are yet to be identified, and the total number of victims is unknown. Around 700 personal items were found at the site.

Security analyst Eduardo Guerrero told The New York Times that the potential number of victims buried there is enormous, highlighting Mexico’s mass grave problem.

The discovery, prompted by an anonymous tip, has dominated headlines, shocking a country accustomed to mass graves and leading to calls for authorities to take action.

There are 120,000 missing people in Mexico.

Jalisco Gov. Pablo Lemus assured critics in a video message that his office is cooperating with federal investigators and addressing the case, according to BBC News.

The ranch in Teuchitlan, about 37 miles (60 kilometers) west of Guadalajara, was allegedly used as a cartel training base when National Guard troops found it last September.

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