Scottish woman found dead inside suitcase in Athens named

Elisabeth Jane Ross' body was discovered by a homeless man in the Kypseli district of Athens

A Scottish woman who was found dead inside a suitcase in Greece has been named.

Elisabeth Jane Ross was found dead by a homeless man in the district of Kypseli in the Greek capital on Saturday, July 18.

Detectives believe the 38-year-old arrived in Greece from the United States via Cyprus on June 29.

Greek and American authorities worked together through Interpol to identify Ms Ross.

Elisabeth Jane Ross was found dead in AthensSupplied
Elisabeth Jane Ross was found dead in Athens

US authorities ultimately provided information that led to her identification.

Ms Ross was born in Edinburgh. The British Embassy in Greece and her father have been informed, Greek police say.

Investigators are working to establish the woman’s movements after her arrival in the country and whether she travelled alone.

Elisabeth Ross' body was found in an abandoned building.Grert
Elisabeth Ross’ body was found in an abandoned building.

Authorities have so far been unable to establish her contacts in Greece.

Police are reviewing security camera footage, witness statements and other evidence in an effort to identify people who may have interacted with her and provide clues about the circumstances surrounding her death.

Journalist Eleni Karanikola Kontorousi told STV News that the multi-cultural area is “not very popular” with tourists.

She said: “I wouldn’t describe it as a traditional tourist area.

“However, in recent years, it has attracted a decent number of visitors mainly because of the growth of short-term rentals like Airbnb.

“And its proximity to the centre of Athens as well.”

It is understood that an autopsy has been carried out and further tests are due to be carried.

Police are carrying out a criminal investigation, however it has not yet been established as a murder enquiry.

A UK Foreign Office spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with Elisabeth’s family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities.”

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.”

STV News is now on WhatsApp

Get all the latest news from around the country

Follow STV News
Follow STV News on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country

WhatsApp channel QR Code
Posted in
Last updated Jul 29th, 2026 at 18:07

Today's Top Stories

Popular Videos

Latest in Scotland

Trending Now