35 Facts About Elisa Lam

The Mysterious Case of Elisa Lam

Elisa Lam's story has fascinated and puzzled many. Her mysterious disappearance and tragic death have sparked numerous theories and discussions. Here are some intriguing facts about Elisa Lam and her case.

1. Elisa Lam was a Canadian student. Born on April 30, 1991, she attended the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

2. She was traveling alone. Elisa embarked on a solo trip to California in January 2013, visiting San Diego, Los Angeles, and Santa Cruz.

3. Her last known location was the Cecil Hotel. Elisa checked into the infamous Cecil Hotel in downtown Los Angeles on January 26, 2013.

4. The Cecil Hotel has a dark history. Known for its violent past, the hotel has been linked to numerous suicides, murders, and even serial killers like Richard Ramirez.

5. Elisa was last seen on January 31, 2013. Surveillance footage captured her in the hotel's elevator, exhibiting strange behavior.

6. The elevator video went viral. The footage, released by the LAPD, showed Elisa pressing multiple buttons, peeking out of the elevator, and making unusual hand gestures.

7. She was reported missing on February 1, 2013. Elisa's parents contacted the LAPD after not hearing from her.

8. A massive search ensued. Police searched the hotel and surrounding areas but found no trace of Elisa.

9. Guests complained about the water. On February 19, 2013, hotel guests reported low water pressure and odd-tasting water.

10. Her body was found in a water tank. Maintenance workers discovered Elisa's body in one of the hotel's rooftop water tanks.

11. The water tank was difficult to access. The tanks were on a locked roof, requiring a ladder to reach, and the lids were heavy.

12. Her death was ruled accidental. The coroner's report concluded that Elisa's death was due to accidental drowning, with her bipolar disorder as a contributing factor.

13. No drugs or alcohol were found in her system. Toxicology tests revealed no traces of drugs or alcohol.

14. Her blog gained posthumous attention. Elisa's Tumblr blog, "Nouvelle-Nouveau," attracted many followers after her death.

15. The case inspired a movie. The 2014 horror film "The Taking of Deborah Logan" drew inspiration from Elisa's story.

16. It also influenced a TV show. The fifth season of "American Horror Story," titled "Hotel," featured a character based on Elisa.

17. The Cecil Hotel rebranded. In 2011, the hotel was partially rebranded as "Stay on Main" to distance itself from its dark past.

18. The hotel closed in 2017. It shut down for renovations and remains closed to this day.

19. Elisa's case remains unsolved. Despite the official ruling, many questions about her death remain unanswered.

20. Numerous theories exist. Some believe Elisa was murdered, while others think she experienced a psychotic episode.

21. Her case has a paranormal angle. Some speculate that supernatural forces at the Cecil Hotel played a role in her death.

22. The elevator game theory. A popular theory suggests Elisa was playing a Korean game meant to summon spirits.

23. Her case is linked to tuberculosis. Around the time of her death, there was a tuberculosis outbreak in Skid Row, and the test for TB is called the "LAM-ELISA."

24. Her family filed a lawsuit. Elisa's parents sued the hotel for negligence but lost the case.

25. The case has a global following. People from around the world continue to discuss and analyze Elisa's story.

26. The rooftop was accessible. Some believe Elisa could have accessed the roof through a fire escape.

27. Her phone was never found. Elisa's cell phone was missing and never recovered.

28. The water tank lid was open. Contrary to initial reports, the tank's lid was found open when her body was discovered.

29. Her clothes were found in the tank. Elisa's clothes were floating in the water near her body.

30. The elevator video was edited. Some believe the footage was tampered with, as there are missing frames and time stamps.

31. She had a history of mental illness. Elisa had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression.

32. Her case is a popular topic on Reddit. The "Unresolved Mysteries" subreddit frequently discusses Elisa's story.

33. A documentary was made. The 2021 Netflix series "Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel" explores Elisa's case.

34. Her death certificate lists multiple causes. It mentions accidental drowning, bipolar disorder, and "other significant conditions."

35. The case remains a mystery. Despite extensive investigation and media coverage, the true circumstances of Elisa Lam's death are still unknown.

Final Thoughts on Elisa Lam

Elisa Lam's story continues to captivate and puzzle many. Her mysterious disappearance and tragic death at the Cecil Hotel have sparked numerous theories and debates. From the eerie elevator footage to the hotel's dark history, every detail adds layers to this unsolved case. While some believe in supernatural elements, others lean towards more rational explanations. Regardless of the theories, Elisa's story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassion. Her life, though cut short, has left an indelible mark on those who have heard her story. As we reflect on these facts, let's remember Elisa Lam not just for the mystery surrounding her death, but for the person she was. Her legacy urges us to seek understanding and kindness in a world often filled with unanswered questions.