Greek authorities are continuing the investigation into the death of 39-year-old Vassilis Kalogirou, whose body was discovered in Larissa after a 50-day search. His disappearance and subsequent death have sparked political controversy due to his mother’s role as head of the Larissa appellate prosecutor’s office, which oversees the high-profile Tempi train crash investigation.

Kalogirou’s mother has suggested he may have been murdered. Private investigator George Tsoukalis told television channel MEGA on Saturday  “The only thing I can rule out is suicide.”

A preliminary autopsy revealed an injury to Kalogirou’s hyoid bone. “Forensic science considers a fracture in this bone as a potential sign of strangulation,” forensic expert Grigoris Leon told To Vima, “but further tests are required before drawing conclusions.”

Authorities are also awaiting DNA results from Kalogirou’s clothing and fingernails. So far, no foreign genetic material has been found. 

Additionally reports that local dogs began barking only a few days before the body was found has also raised questions. “Dogs have a keen sense of smell and can perceive more than we can,” forensic scientist Dimitris Galenteris told MEGA, adding that insects found on the body could help determine the time of death.

Authorities are analyzing security footage and mobile phone data to track Kalogirou’s movements before his death. 

Speaking to MEGA, the manager of Kalogirou’s apartment building in Kastoria expressed shock:

“As a development, it is shocking. I don’t think there is a Greek at the moment who doesn’t make the association that this case has to do with his mother’s involvement in the Tempi case. Clearly, this is a criminal act. We who had basic contact with Vassilis and his father are very shocked by all this.”

The case has ignited political debate in the Greek parliament, with opposition leaders questioning why authorities were quick to dismiss foul play. 

Since then, Supreme Court Prosecutor Georgia Adeilini has ordered an urgent investigation, and Kalogirou’s parents and uncle have been summoned to testify.

Roumbini Leontari, head of the Larissa Forensic Service, who conducted the initial autopsy, has removed herself from the case due to public scrutiny and personal attacks amid the controversy.