In a harrowing true crime saga that has shocked Melbourne, 23-year-old Celeste Mano was brutally murdered by a crazed stalker who had tormented her for over a year. The chilling events unfolded in the early hours of August 16, 2020, when L Seiko, a former coworker, broke into Celeste’s home armed with a kitchen knife and a hammer, launching a frenzied attack that left her dead in mere minutes.

Celeste, known for her kindness and vibrant spirit, had been subjected to relentless harassment from L after he developed an unhealthy obsession with her. Despite her repeated pleas for him to stop, including a police report and a restraining order, L’s harassment escalated. He sent her explicit messages and even stalked her from his car outside her workplace. Authorities failed to take adequate action, allowing L’s dangerous fixation to spiral out of control.

On that fateful night, after seeing a photo of Celeste with her boyfriend on social media, L drove to her house. He smashed a window to gain entry and attacked her in her sleep, delivering over 23 stab wounds, including a fatal blow to her heart. Celeste’s mother, Aggie, heard the commotion and rushed to her daughter’s room, only to find a horrific scene that would haunt her forever.

L’s twisted plan unraveled as he drove to a police station, claiming he wanted to be shot by officers, attempting to feign insanity. He was arrested and ultimately charged with murder, but his trial revealed a disturbing lack of remorse. In February 2024, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 36 years in prison, with a non-parole period of 30 years.

Celeste’s mother has since become a fierce advocate for stalking victims, criticizing the justice system for its failures and calling for stricter protections. The tragic case is a grim reminder of the dangers of stalking and the urgent need for systemic change to protect potential victims before it’s too late.