The first photographs of Elisabeth Jane Ross, a Scottish woman whose body was discovered in a suitcase in a derelict building in Athens, have been published by Greek media.
Discovery of the Body
Elisabeth's remains were found by a homeless man on Evelpidon Street in the Kypseli district at around 1pm on July 18. The rough sleeper reported a foul odour inside the abandoned building, which had stood empty for two years, and noticed a human limb protruding from the suitcase.
Elisabeth, believed to have been born in Scotland in February 1988, had been deceased for approximately eight days. Police confirmed no visible injuries or obvious signs of a struggle were found on the body.
Investigation and International Assistance
The woman could not initially be identified as she reportedly had no identification. She was estimated to be around 30 years old, 5ft 4in tall, with reddish hair tied in a bun, and was wearing black shorts bearing a French university insignia and a T-shirt. A post-mortem examination is due in the coming days.
Greek authorities have enlisted the help of Interpol and US investigators. On Monday, Interpol notified the Hellenic Police that DNA analysis confirmed the body was that of a British woman. Elisabeth is believed to have travelled to Greece on June 29 via Cyprus after departing from the US.
Police Appeal and Family Support
Officers are interviewing anyone who may have encountered her before her death and are trying to establish her final movements. One resident near the location told Greek media the property was frequented by rough sleepers, noting that one man who stayed there consistently had not been seen for several days.
Police Scotland are working with Greek authorities and providing support to Elisabeth's family in Scotland. 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 Elisabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities."
No Suspect Identified Yet
No suspect has been identified at this stage.
