Tragic Details Found In Elisa Lam's Autopsy Report
Andrew Adams
Updated on March 18, 2026
A&E reports that before her disappearance, Elisa Lam — who booked a shared hostel-style room — had been acting strangely. Her roommates complained about her odd behavior, and she was moved to a private room. Lam had a history of mental illness and was previously diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression. Although the Los Angeles County coroner ruled her death undetermined, that quickly changed. According to Heavy, Lam's autopsy report now states that she died due to accidental drowning, and her bipolar disorder is listed as a contributing factor. She had no internal or external injuries and was not assaulted sexually or otherwise. In addition, there was no alcohol or illegal drugs in her system.
However, All That's Interesting points out that barely any medication for Lam's bipolar disorder was found in a limited sample of her blood. Thus, it's believed that Lam had not been taking her medication properly, which could have caused psychotic effects. It's theorized that this is what led Lam to head to the roof and into the water tank. Her own sister, Sara Lam, noted that she could sometimes become paranoid and believe someone was following her.
No trauma was found on Lam's body, and foul play was ruled out. Even with this conclusion, several questions still remain about Lam's mystifying death. What actually occurred when she made her way to the roof and into the water tank? It seems that those answers will forever remain unknown, as Biography states that the case is officially closed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.