Elisa Lam Death
Canadian student Elisa Lam was found dead in a rooftop water tank at the Cecil Hotel. Elevator footage showed her behaving bizarrely, pressing buttons and hiding from something invisible. The hotel had a dark history. Her death was ruled accidental, but the video spawned endless theories.
The elevator video that haunted the internet.
The Disappearance
On January 31, 2013, at the Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles, a Canadian tourist went missing. She was 21 years old, on a solo trip, and last seen on the elevator.
The Video
The surveillance footage showed her pressing all buttons, hiding in the corner, and gesturing strangely. She appeared to be talking to someone unseen and acting erratically.
The Discovery
On February 19, 2013, guests complained that the water tasted strange and had a dark color. Maintenance checked the rooftop water tank and found her body.
The Cecil Hotel
The location had a dark history. Serial killers had resided there, including Richard Ramirez. Multiple suicides had occurred over the years. It was nicknamed “Hotel Death” and was eventually renamed.
The Investigation
Official findings ruled it an accidental drowning. She had bipolar disorder and was off her medication. No foul play was found, and the case was closed.
The Theories
Internet speculation ran wild with theories of murder coverup, paranormal involvement, water game rituals, possession, and endless other possibilities. The debate continues online.
Sources
The elevator doors opened and closed. She pressed buttons, hid, gestured to empty air. The video went viral. The world watched and wondered. But the Cecil Hotel keeps its secrets, and Elisa Lam took hers into the water tank on the roof.