Greek Police Investigate Death of Scottish Woman Found in Suitcase

Greek police are investigating the death of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, a 38 year old Scottish woman whose body was found inside a suitcase on July 18. The body was discovered in a derelict building in the Kypseli area of Athens. Investigators believe Ms. Ross died between five and seven days before she was found; toxicology tests are currently being conducted to determine if foul play was involved.

Police report that the phone of Ms. Ross remained active after her death in an apparent attempt to mislead those searching for her. Messages sent to family members on July 15 stated that she needed time to herself and wanted to be alone. Another message sent to a Greek friend claimed she was going to a Greek island. The phone remains missing but was reported as active in Athens until approximately 24 hours before the report.

Ms. Ross had traveled to Greece via Cyprus from the United States, where her fingerprints were registered. Because there were no identification documents with the body, Greek police used Interpol to confirm her identity through fingerprint data.

Greek and Cypriot authorities are currently reviewing security camera footage and witness statements to identify anyone who may have interacted with Ms. Ross. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is providing consular support, while Police Scotland is liaising with Greek authorities.