The body of 38-year-old Elizabeth Jane Ross was discovered by a homeless individual on Evelpidon Street in the Kypseli area of Athens at around 1pm on July 18. The rough sleeper reported following a putrid odour into a deserted structure that had remained vacant for two years. It is believed he spotted a human limb protruding from the exterior of a suitcase.
Elizabeth, who is thought to have been born in Scotland, had been deceased for roughly eight days. No apparent injuries or obvious signs of a struggle were discovered on the corpse, according to authorities. Officers initially could not identify her as she allegedly carried no identification documents. Police thought the victim to be approximately 30 years old, 5ft 4in in height, with auburn hair secured in a bun and dressed in black shorts bearing a French university logo, along with a T-shirt.
Investigation and International Assistance
A post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place in the forthcoming days. Interpol and US investigators have been enlisted by Greek authorities to support the investigation. On Monday (July 27), Interpol informed the Hellenic Police that DNA analysis confirmed the remains belonged to a British woman. Elizabeth is believed to have journeyed to Greece on June 29 via Cyprus after arriving from the US.
Police and Family Response
Detectives are now interviewing anyone who may have encountered her before her death while attempting to piece together her final movements. Police Scotland are working alongside Greek authorities regarding the investigation. Officers are also offering support to her family in Scotland. No suspect has been identified at this stage.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of the death of Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece. Officers are providing support to her family in Scotland."
A UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with Elizabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities."
