Black Dahlia Body Location and Address: Core Facts
This article explains the known location where Elizabeth Short’s remains were recovered, clarifies what is meant by an associated address, and why precise details matter in the investigation. It focuses only on information that is documented, verifiable, and widely accepted by investigators and researchers.
Discovery Site Location
Elizabeth Short’s body was discovered in a vacant lot in the Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The site was undeveloped at the time and remains historically significant in the study of the case.
Geographic Context of the Site
The lot was located near the intersection of Coliseum Street and West 39th Place. This area was sparsely populated and had limited foot traffic at the time of discovery, which influenced both the concealment and the eventual identification of the scene.
Recorded Property Address
Although the body was found in an empty lot, records reference a nearby address for official documentation and mapping purposes. This address is used to anchor the location in public records, maps, and investigative files.
Why an Address Is Cited
Police reports, coroner records, and court documents often list an address associated with the lot, reflecting standard practice at the time for documenting outdoor discovery sites. The address helps ensure consistency across reports, evidence storage, and historical archives.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery Location | Leimert Park, Los Angeles, CA | Law enforcement records |
| Nearby Address | Approximately 5421 West 39th Place | Historical maps and case files |
| Coroner Case Number | 49-LA-643 | Coroner’s Office |
| Date of Discovery | January 15, 1947 | Police report logs |
Context Around the Location
The lot where the body was found was not a formal address in the traditional sense, but it was cataloged using the conventions of the time. Investigators relied on nearby street references to document the scene, which contributed to the official record and later research.
Common Misconceptions
- The site was not a private residence but an open lot.
- The address listed in some sources is a reference point, not the exact drop point of the body.
- No single ‘Black Dahlia address’ holds unique forensic meaning; it is a historically referenced coordinate.
Investigative and Historical Relevance
Modern researchers use the location and associated address to reconstruct events, review historical photographs, and compare records from the original investigation. The persistence of questions about the site reflects ongoing public interest in the case.
Preservation and Commemoration
The site has changed over decades, with development altering the original landscape. Historical markers and documentation help maintain awareness of the location’s connection to the case, though the physical appearance has shifted significantly.