An American scientist found dead in a World War II bunker died as a result of a “criminal act” on the Greek island of Crete, a state coroner has confirmed.
Police on the island confirmed to the BBC the body found Monday was that of Suzanne Eaton, 59, a molecular biologist at the Max Planck Institute in Dresden.
Ms Eaton had been on the island for a science conference. It was thought she had gone for a run, and colleagues raised the alarm when she failed to return on June 2.
Her passport, wallet, phone, cash, and cycling shoes were in her hotel room but her running shoes were missing, according to a social media page set up by family and friends appealing for help finding her. A funding effort for the search raised over £30,000 (Dh13,800).
Her body was discovered by locals exploring tunnels near the port city of Chania used by the Nazis during their occupation of the island in WWII.
Authorities had launched a major search for Eaton in rural areas near Chania, helped by members of her family and fire service rescuers from Athens.
"We showed respect for her remains which were found in a tunnel," Fire Service rescue team leader Nikolaos Papaleonidas said.
"The recovery operation was not difficult but it followed an extensive search effort. The tunnel was about 100 meters (yards) from a rural road."
The police said officers from Athens including homicide detectives had travelled to the island to head the investigation.
Mr Papadomanolakis said he believed Ms Eaton died around the time she was last seen on July 2.
The Max Planck Institute expressed its sorrow at its employee’s death in a statement.
"It is with enormous sadness and regret that we announce the tragic demise of our dearest friend and colleague, Suzanne Eaton... We are deeply shocked and disturbed by this tragic event."
“Suzanne was an outstanding and inspiring scientist, a loving spouse and mother, an athlete as well as a truly wonderful person beloved to us all. Her loss is unbearable. Our thoughts and prayers are with her husband Tony, her sons Max and Luke, and with all her family.”
