Greek police could know how woman found in suitcase died 'in coming days'
Authorities are yet unable to say whether the death of Elisabeth-Jane Ross is considered murder, but toxicology tests are being fast-tracked.
Greek authorities anticipate determining the cause of death for a Scottish woman discovered in a suitcase "in the coming days," as toxicology tests are being expedited.
Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38, known to her family as Lisa, was found on July 18 in an abandoned structure in Athens' Kypseli district, reportedly by a homeless individual. She is believed to have traveled to Greece from Edinburgh in late June and was reported missing on July 15.
Investigators are also seeking to locate Lisa's American acquaintances, who were reportedly staying in Kypseli as well.
While a post-mortem examination is ongoing, police have not yet confirmed if Lisa's death is being treated as a murder. Toxicology results, which typically take weeks or months, are being fast-tracked to ascertain the cause of death and determine if foul play was involved.
Police spokesperson Konstantina Dimoglidou informed BBC Scotland News on Saturday, "We have made it a priority so we can have results in the coming days. Then we will know how she died. This can't wait."
Lisa initially resided in Keratsini, approximately 5.9 miles (9.5km) west of central Athens, with Greek friends. She informed them on July 15 that she was heading to Kypseli to meet her "American friends" or acquaintances, whom police are now attempting to identify. Her mobile phone continued to transmit signals and messages for several days after her death.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed on Wednesday that they are providing consular assistance and are in communication with Greek authorities. First Minister John Swinney described the situation as an "absolutely appalling case," assuring that the Scottish government and the FCDO would support her family. Police Scotland is also offering support to Lisa's family.