Greek authorities and Police Scotland are investigating the death of 38-year-old Scottish tourist Elisabeth-Jane Ross.
Her body was discovered inside a suitcase in a derelict building in the Kypseli neighborhood of Athens on July 18.
A homeless man found the luggage containing Ross's remains. Investigators estimate she died five to seven days before the discovery.
Greek police report no visible external evidence on the body or suitcase to immediately identify a third party.
However, they suspect she was killed nearby and moved to the location on foot.
Authorities are examining suspicious mobile phone activity.
Text messages were sent from Ross's phone on July 15 to family and friends stating she needed time alone.
Investigators believe these were sent by another individual to mislead searchers.
Family Tributes and Investigation
Family members paid tribute to the victim while questioning the circumstances surrounding her sudden death abroad. "It is horrific.
We just can't believe it. She was such a beautiful, loving and kind young lady," said Anne Bangham, her aunt.
Bangham noted that Ross had only recently arrived in the country for work opportunities before going missing. "I wish I could get my hands on whoever did it.
She had not long arrived there to work. It will take a while to sink in," she added.
Ross had initially traveled from Edinburgh to Greece on June 29.
She stayed with friends in the Athens suburb of Keratsini before meeting American friends in Kypseli on July 15.
Law enforcement officials in Athens are conducting comprehensive toxicology tests to determine the exact cause of death and establish if foul play occurred.
"No other evidence has emerged from the body or the suitcase that would allow us to identify another person," said a police spokesperson.
Forensic examination results remain pending as investigators attempt to trace the origin of the suitcase and the final movements of the victim.
"We are awaiting the result of toxicology tests to determine the cause of death, and ascertain whether foul play was involved," said a police spokesperson.
Local authorities confirmed that criminal investigation protocols remain active while forensic specialists analyze the gathered evidence. "The investigation is ongoing," said a police spokesperson.
United Kingdom diplomatic officials and domestic law enforcement have confirmed active involvement in supporting the victim's relatives during the international inquiry.
"Our thoughts are with Elisabeth’s family during this difficult time.
We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities," said the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
Scottish police services are maintaining direct communication lines with investigators in Greece while coordinating local family assistance.
"We are aware of the death of a Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece," said a Police Scotland spokesperson.
Officers continue to assist family members in Scotland as the international investigation progresses. "Officers are providing support to her family in Scotland," said a Police Scotland spokesperson.
No arrests have been made in connection with the case as authorities await the official toxicology report.
