Autopsy results in the death of missing 75-year-old woman in Paphos Forest

A post-mortem examination was performed on September 4, 2026, at the Nicosia General Hospital on the remains discovered the previous day in the Paphos State Forest. The body, identified by family members through clothing, is believed to be that of 75-year-old Erato Athanasiou, who had been missing since August 23, 2026. Forensic pathologist Nikolas Charalambous conducted the examination, which did not reveal any external injuries or signs of an attack that would suggest criminal activity.

The elderly woman had last been seen leaving her home in Tsakkistra on the morning of August 23, stating she was going for a walk. Following eleven days of search operations by authorities and volunteers, her body was found in the forest at a distance of 15 to 25 kilometers from her last known location. Official scientific identification via DNA analysis is currently pending.

The Morphou Criminal Investigation Department is investigating the death as an unnatural incident. To determine the exact cause of death, samples have been collected for histopathological and toxicological analysis. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities currently awaiting further laboratory results.