Tragedy Strikes at 'Stranger Things' Site: 19-Year-Old Dies in Fall

A Heartbreaking Loss at a Familiar Filming Location

The beloved Netflix series Stranger Things has once again been linked to real-world tragedy, following the death of 19-year-old Leah Palmiortto in a fatal fall at an abandoned building used as a filming location. The incident occurred in the early hours of December 19, 2025, at the Briarcliff Road property on Emory University's campus in DeKalb County, Georgia.

Leah Palmiortto was part of a group exploring the five-story vacant structure shortly before 1 a.m. when she fell from the building and was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators believe the group entered the property by climbing over a chain-link fence. The cause of the fall remains under investigation, though police are actively working to determine the circumstances that led to the tragedy.

The Victim Remembered

Leah, described by her father Todd Palmiortto Jr. as "perfect," leaves behind grieving family members, including two brothers. "I just wasn’t sure," he shared upon receiving the devastating news. "I’m just hoping it was instant. I just hope she felt no pain," he added, expressing his hope that her final moments were painless.

Leah had reportedly visited the site before, and her father now urges young people to avoid abandoned buildings, emphasizing the dangers of exploring such structures. "Going to these places are dangerous, being with people that you really don’t know," he warned, reflecting on the family’s longstanding concerns about potential risks.

A Familiar Set with a Dark History

The building, known as Building A, once housed the Georgia Mental Health Institute before Emory acquired the site in the 1990s. It gained fame as the backdrop for Hawkins National Laboratory in Stranger Things and has also appeared in productions like The Vampire Diaries. Despite plans for demolition to make way for a senior living facility announced in 2022, the structure remains standing and has become a popular yet unauthorized destination for urban explorers.

Following the incident, Emory University has increased security at the location, fencing off the area and posting guards to prevent further access. The university has not yet commented publicly on the tragedy.

Community Response and Vigil

In the wake of this loss, Leah’s family has organized a vigil to honor her memory at a Kennesaw park on December 23. A fundraiser has also been established to assist with burial costs, reflecting the community’s support during this difficult time.

"She was perfect. I was blown away." – Todd Palmiortto Jr., Leah’s father

A Reminder of Hidden Dangers

This incident underscores the perilous allure of abandoned sites, often romanticized in pop culture. While Stranger Things fans may recognize the building, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder that real-life exploration of such properties carries significant risks. As investigations continue, authorities and family alike hope Leah’s death will prompt others to prioritize safety over curiosity.