On November 11th, the ex-partner of a 43-year-old woman in Agrinio murdered her. Despite previously reporting him for domestic violence and securing a restraining order, the man ignored the restrictions. Just days before a scheduled court hearing on 15 November, he approached her as she attempted to enter her car, shot her in the stomach at close range, and left her gravely injured on Papagianni Street in central Agrinio. Though rushed to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries. Before being taken by ambulance, she managed to identify her attacker to police as her ex-partner.
The 30-year-old suspect, a professional driver with a history of violence, who was allegedly involved in offshoots of the Greek Mafia in the Agrinio area, had been previously charged with domestic violence in September. He surrendered to authorities at the time and was prohibited from approaching the victim. In addition to the restraining order, three shotguns were confiscated from him. Yet, he was able to acquire another weapon, which he used to carry out the killing. Reports also indicate that he had connections to organised crime in the Agrinio area. Following the murder, the suspect called his sister, confessing, “I did it; I injured Dora, I don’t know if she’s alive.” The police are currently looking for him.
While this was going on, Garifalia, a 41-year-old woman from Patras, passed away in the hospital from severe injuries that her ex-partner had brutally assaulted her with earlier in the week. The couple, who lived together in Patras, had a history of violent incidents. Last Monday, after another attack, Garifalia attempted to leave and booked a hotel room, but her partner found her. In a horrific assault, he kicked her repeatedly in the head and body, throwing her to the curb where she sustained fatal injuries. Her family later confirmed her death, stating that Garifalia had died of a stroke. In a gesture of compassion amidst their grief, the family announced their decision to donate her organs, giving others a chance at life.
The 49-year-old attacker, initially detained on charges of causing grievous bodily harm, is now expected to face upgraded charges in light of Garifalia’s death.
______________________________________________
Are you seeking news from Greece presented from a progressive, non-mainstream perspective? Subscribe monthly or annually to support TPP International in delivering independent reporting in English. Don’t let Greek progressive voices fade.
Make sure to reference “TPP International” and your order number as the reason for payment.