Greek police believe phone of British woman found dead in suitcase was used to stall investigation - reports

Greek police believe the mobile phone of a British woman found dead in a suitcase in Athens was used to send messages after her death in a deliberate attempt to mislead those looking for her, according to reports.

The body of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38, was discovered by a homeless man within a derelict building in the Kypseli area of Athens on 18 July.

Ms Ross is believed to have died between five and seven days before she was found.

According to Greek media reports, it is understood she arrived in the country from the United States via Cyprus on 29 June.

Following her arrival, Ms Ross initially stayed with friends in the town of Keratsini, in the suburbs of Athens, before meeting American friends in Kypseli.

It has since been reported that Greek police believe her phone was used to send messages after her death, in an apparent attempt to mislead those looking for her.

Authorities are said to be attempting to trace where her phone had been in the days following her death.

The discovery sparked a multi-agency investigation, with Interpol helping to identify Ms Ross through fingerprint data as it matched records in the USA, where she had previously worked.

Ms Ross, also known as Lisa, is understood to be from the Edinburgh area.

A Greek Police spokesman said: "No other evidence has emerged from the body or the suitcase that would allow us to identify another person.

"We are awaiting the result of toxicology tests to determine the cause of death, and ascertain whether foul play was involved.

"The investigation is ongoing."

Read more from Sky News:
Mother and paedophile boyfriend jailed for murder of toddler
Search for missing man who vanished in 2024

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) 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."

Police Scotland is also providing support to Ms Ross' family.

A force spokesperson added: "We are aware of the death of a Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece."

(c) Sky News 2026: Greek police believe phone of British woman found dead in suitcase was used to stall investigation - reports