A Scottish woman found dead in a suitcase in an abandoned building in Greece has been remembered as a "kind soul" by friends and family. Elisabeth Jane Ross, 38, also known as Lisa, was discovered by a homeless man in the Kypseli neighbourhood of Athens at around 1pm on July 18.
Police believe she had been dead for approximately eight days. No visible wounds or signs of struggle were found on the body, according to Greek authorities. Detectives are investigating whether the death was a "criminal act," with toxicology tests underway.
No evidence of third party
A police spokesperson said there was no evidence on either the body or the suitcase that would allow identification of a third party. The homeless man who found her reported following a foul smell into the deserted building, which had been empty for two years. He reportedly saw a human limb protruding from the suitcase.
Heartbroken loved ones paid tribute on social media. Pauline Hood wrote: "I am totally devastated. One of the kindest souls I’ve ever met. Lisa would have done anything for anyone. She went that extra mile. She had a beautiful heart." Jem Wren added: "Lisa was a lovely girl, I went to school with her. I just can’t believe someone could do this to another person." Anne Morrison said: "I hope they find out who did this!"
Final days and phone messages
Ms Ross had no identification on her when found. She was described as around 30, 5ft 4in, with reddish hair in a bun, wearing black shorts with a French university insignia and a T-shirt. Local media reported she travelled from Edinburgh to Greece on June 29, staying with friends in Keratsini before meeting American friends in Kypseli on July 15.
Her phone was reportedly used in an attempt to cover her death. Text messages were sent after she died, including one to her family on July 15 claiming she "needed some time to herself" and another to a Greek friend on July 18 saying "I need some time - I'm going to a Greek island." The phone was active around Athens until Ms Ross was formally identified. A Greek officer said: "The phone was being used. Text messages were even sent obviously with a view to making people believe she was still alive."
Investigation ongoing
An autopsy is scheduled in the coming days. Interpol and US investigators are assisting Greek authorities. Police Scotland are liaising with Greek officials and providing support to the family. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of the death of Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece." A UK Foreign Office spokesperson added: "Our thoughts are with Elisabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support." No suspect has been identified.
