The phone of a Scottish woman whose body was found stuffed in a suitcase and abandoned in an Athens building was reportedly used after her death to make it appear she was still alive.
Discovery of Remains
Elisabeth Jane Ross, 38, was discovered by a homeless man on Evelpidon Street in the Kypseli neighbourhood around 1pm on July 18. Born in Scotland in February 1988, she had been dead for approximately eight days. Police found no visible wounds or signs of struggle.
The rough sleeper followed a foul smell into the building, which had been empty for two years, and saw a human limb protruding from a suitcase.
Phone Activity After Death
A local police officer alleged messages were sent from Elisabeth's mobile in the days after her death, up until she was identified by media. The officer said: "The phone was being used. Text messages were even sent obviously with a view to making people believe she was still alive. We are treating the building as a crime scene."
Identification and Investigation
Elisabeth could not be initially identified as she had no identification on her. She was described as around 30 years old, 5ft 4in tall, with reddish hair tied in a bun, wearing black shorts with a French university insignia and a T-shirt.
An autopsy is expected in the coming days. Greek authorities have called in Interpol and US investigators. On Monday, Interpol informed Hellenic Police that DNA testing identified the body as a British woman.
Travel and Family Contact
Elisabeth is understood to have travelled to Greece on June 29 via Cyprus from the US. Police are speaking with anyone who may have contacted her before her death and are tracing her final movements. Two photos of her smiling have been released by Greek outlet Cretalive.
A local resident told Greek media the building was used by rough sleepers, and one man who regularly stayed there had not been seen for several days.
Official Statements
Police Scotland 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 Elisabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities." No suspect has been identified.
