Authorities in Kalamata are continuing an investigation into the shooting-related death of a 44-year-old man who was found dead inside a stable, as new evidence reportedly points toward suicide.

Police on Wednesday afternoon located the suspected weapon a short distance from the site where the body was found, at first indicating foul play, although later inquiries pointed to a possible cover-up of the suicide.

According to reports, the firearm – a hunting shotgun – belonged to an elderly owner of the property where the victim was found. The latter is the father of a 50-year-old local woman who, along with her partner, discovered the body.

The victim, an Albanian national, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head at close range from a shotgun. Reports indicate he was not a permanent resident of Kalamata but lived in Corinth.

Police said the victim had a prior criminal record mostly related to drug offenses.

Based on forensic findings, testimony from the victim’s brother and statements from the two witnesses, authorities are currently treating suicide as the most credible scenario. However, the investigation remains open.

According to public broadcaster ERT, the man is believed to have shot himself using a hunting shotgun belonging to the elderly stable owner.

The victim’s brother has reportedly told police that the man had previously expressed thoughts of ending his life.

The initial confusion in the case stemmed from the actions of the two individuals who first discovered the body. Out of fear, as they claimed, they allegedly dismantled the weapon and disposed of it in a nearby irrigation canal.

They later claimed the undeclared shotgun belonged to a relative and that they were concerned about potential legal consequences.