TRUE CRIME ATLAS

Black Dahlia

Published March 31, 2026Updated April 2, 2026

Overview

Case Overview

The Black Dahlia case concerns the unsolved homicide of Elizabeth Short, whose mutilated body was found in Los Angeles, California, on January 15, 1947. Short's killing drew intense national press coverage, generated hundreds of leads and confessions, and remains one of the most famous unsolved murder investigations in U.S. history.

Cover of Black Dahlia, Red Rose

Featured Book

Black Dahlia, Red Rose

by Piu Eatwell

A strong modern case book that is widely read, heavily researched, and centered on the historical record rather than just the mythology around Elizabeth Short.

Best for readers who want a focused, evidence-driven narrative on the case itself.

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Case At A Glance

Unknown offender; officially unresolved homicide

High confidence

Compare theories
Status
Unsolved
Primary location
Leimert Park
Open question
Where was Elizabeth Short held between the Biltmore sighting and the estimated time of death?
Latest timeline item
Jan 1, 2003: Steve Hodel Publishes Book Accusing Father

Key Facts

Status: Unsolved

Also known as: Black Dahlia Murder, Elizabeth Short, Elizabeth Short murder, The Black Dahlia

Coverage: 19 timeline events, 9 persons, and 14 locations

Sources collected: 392 sources

Categories

Most FamousTop UnsolvedHistoric Homicides

Tags

Los AngelesCalifornia1940sElizabeth Shortunsolvedmedia frenzycold case