19-Year-Old Woman Dies After Falling From Abandoned Hospital Building in Atlanta

19-Year-Old Woman Dies After Falling From Abandoned Hospital Building in Atlanta

Incident at Attractively Known Filming Site

A 19-year-old woman died early Friday morning after falling from the roof of an abandoned hospital building on the campus of Emory University’s Briarcliff property in Atlanta, authorities confirmed. The building at 1256 Briarcliff Road NE was part of a former mental health treatment facility and has drawn attention as a filming location for television and film productions.

Emergency crews responded to reports of a fall just after 1:00 a.m. on December 19, 2025, after receiving notifications from bystanders on or near the site. When first responders arrived, they found the woman unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene by officials from the DeKalb County Police Department and the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Officials later identified the victim as 19-year-old Leah Palmirotto. At this time, authorities have not indicated whether anyone else was injured during the incident.

Site History and Access Concerns

The abandoned structure, known locally as Briarcliff Building A, dates back to the 1960s when it served as a mental health treatment center. Emory University acquired the 42-acre campus in 1998, and over the years the property has been used for various purposes. Although the university lists multiple buildings on the site, including some previously rented to film crews, it has since removed the online description for this specific building.

The site became particularly well known to the public for its connection to the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things,” where it was used as part of the fictional Hawkins National Laboratory setting. The association with the show increased interest from visitors, including urban explorers and fans, despite the site being closed to the public and marked with warning signs.

In statements following the incident, university representatives emphasized that the property is fenced off and contains clear signage advising against trespassing. Officials said security measures at the location would be enhanced in the wake of the fatal fall.

Ongoing Investigation

The Emory Police Department is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death. Investigators are working with the DeKalb County Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of the fall. At this stage, authorities have not released further details about what led to the accident or whether any charges may be filed.

Officials reiterated that entering restricted or abandoned structures poses significant dangers, both from potential structural instability and from unsafe conditions present at sites that are not maintained. Local law enforcement continues to urge the public to respect barricades and warning postings.

Response From Community

News of the fatal fall prompted expressions of concern from local residents and community leaders who said the incident highlights broader issues of trespassing and safety at abandoned properties. The Briarcliff campus includes several vacant buildings that have long been the subject of interest, but authorities stressed that public access is prohibited for safety and liability reasons.

As the investigation continues, police encouraged anyone with information about the events leading up to the incident to come forward. Additional updates are expected as the inquiry proceeds.