Authorities in Greece are currently investigating the suspicious death of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, a 38-year-old Scottish woman discovered inside a suitcase. Her remains were located on July 18 within an abandoned property in the Kypseli neighborhood of Athens, after being reportedly discovered by a homeless individual.
Initial assessments suggest Ross passed away five to seven days before the discovery. It is believed she had traveled from Cyprus to Greece approximately two weeks prior to her death. A representative for the Greek police stated that they are awaiting toxicology reports to confirm the cause of death and determine if criminal activity was involved, as a preliminary examination did not yield conclusive results.
First Minister John Swinney described the situation as a distressing tragedy and confirmed that the Scottish government and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office are assisting the victim’s family. Reports from the region indicate that someone may have used Ross’s mobile phone after her death to send messages, potentially to misdirect those searching for her.
Journalist Helena Smith noted that the Kypseli area is a popular, bustling part of Athens frequently visited by tourists and expatriates. Ross, who had family in Edinburgh, had been staying with a friend in the capital before she went missing. Both Police Scotland and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office are coordinating with Greek officials to support the family throughout the ongoing investigation.
