Disappearance case in Chania: Blood of 45-year-old woman found in vehicle of 43-year-old tenant
Critical genetic findings strengthen authorities' suspicions of homicide in the case of missing Stavroula Leventaki, whilst the 43-year-old suspect denies any involvement.
Disappearance case in Chania: Blood of 45-year-old woman found in vehicle of 43-year-old tenant
New evidence has emerged in the case of missing Stavroula Leventaki in Chania, as laboratory tests have confirmed that biological material belonging to the 45-year-old woman is present in the car of the 43-year-old man who rented her house.
The man, who is from North Macedonia, was found by police on the evening of Friday, 29 June, after he had been missing for several days. He claimed he went into hiding because he feared for his life, as he had been receiving threats from relatives of the woman.
He was initially arrested for violating narcotics legislation, after a search uncovered cannabis plants in an area he used. On Tuesday, 23 June, he was taken to court on these charges, without being charged so far in connection with the disappearance.
During the past period, specialists from the Forensic Service had found marks in the 43-year-old's flat—specifically on the floor and on an electrical appliance. Analysis showed that the DNA belonged to the missing woman. Now, new laboratory results reveal that similar traces are also present in the vehicle he was driving.
The suspect categorically denies any connection with the disappearance. During interrogation he maintained a negative stance. In parallel, authorities are investigating why he had destroyed material from the recording system he kept at his house. On the other hand, video from a camera on a neighbouring building shows the woman entering his house shortly before she disappeared.
Police now consider it certain that the 45-year-old has lost her life. Searches to locate her body are focused on an area near the city's hospital, as evidence indicates that the vehicle travelled in that direction on that evening. The arrival of a team from the Forensic Service from Athens is expected for further investigations.
Source: TA NEA
Source: Ta Nea