Greek media have released the first photographs of a Scottish woman whose remains were found stuffed inside a suitcase and abandoned in a derelict building in Athens. The victim has been identified as Elizabeth Jane Ross, 38.
Discovery by homeless man
The body was discovered around 1pm on July 18 on Evelpidon Street in the Kypseli neighbourhood. A homeless man reported following a foul odour into a building that had been empty for two years. He reportedly saw a human limb protruding from a suitcase.
Police believe Ross had been dead for approximately eight days. No visible wounds or signs of struggle were found on the body.
Identification and investigation
Ross had no identification on her at the scene. She was initially thought to be 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 scheduled in the coming days. Interpol notified Greek police on Monday that DNA testing confirmed the body was that of a British woman. Interpol and US investigators have been called in to assist.
Travel and family support
Ross is understood to have travelled to Greece on June 29 from the US via Cyprus. Authorities are speaking with anyone who may have had contact with her before her death and are trying to trace her final movements.
Police Scotland are liaising with Greek authorities and providing support to Ross’s family in Scotland. No suspect has been identified yet.
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.”
