Carl Tanzler (aka Count von Cosel)

Carl Tanzler was a German-born radiologist who became infamously known for his obsession with a young tuberculosis patient named Elena Hoyos. After meeting her in 1930 at a hospital in Key West, Florida, Tanzler became captivated by her beauty and vowed to save her life. Despite his efforts, Hoyos succumbed to her illness in 1931.

Tanzler, unable to accept her death, exhumed her body from the cemetery after a few months and brought it to his home. He attempted to preserve her remains using various methods, including chemicals and clothes, and kept her in a makeshift shrine. For several years, he lived with her corpse, engaging in disturbing rituals that he believed reflected their love.

In 1940, Tanzler's secret was revealed when a relative of Hoyos discovered his actions, leading to his arrest. Although he faced no criminal charges due to the lack of laws regarding body desecration, the case garnered significant media attention. Ultimately, Tanzler's story became a macabre tale of love and obsession, reflecting the extremes of grief.