The investigation into the death of a 38-year-old British woman found inside a suitcase in an abandoned building in Athens has taken a new turn, as Greek authorities suspect the perpetrators used the victim’s phone to deceive family members and buy time.
The victim, Elisabeth Jane Ross from Scotland, was found dead on July 18 in the Kypseli neighborhood of the Greek capital after a homeless person reported to police that he had seen a suitcase containing what appeared to be a human limb.
According to investigators, since July 15, the date she was allegedly killed, messages have been sent to her family from her phone, saying she needed to be alone for a while. Police believe these messages were not written by Ross herself, but by the person or persons responsible for her death, in an attempt to cover up the crime.
The 38-year-old’s phone has not yet been found, while authorities say it was active in the Athens area until shortly before the victim’s official identification.
Investigators are analyzing security camera footage from near the building where the body was discovered, and are also examining a suitcase, which is believed to not have belonged to the victim. Police say it may contain biological or fingerprint traces that could help identify the perpetrators.
A preliminary forensic examination has not revealed any visible wounds or signs of struggle on Ross’s body, while the cause of death is expected to be determined after toxicology tests.
Authorities have confirmed that the 38-year-old had traveled from the United States to Greece in late June, via Cyprus, and are verifying her recent movements, accommodation reservations, and people she may have come into contact with.
Greek police are continuing their investigations in cooperation with British and Cypriot authorities, while the victim’s family has been notified and is being supported by British consular services.