The motive behind the cold-blooded murder of a 43-year-old Polish professor in Saint Paraskevi on Friday afternoon remains unknown. The shocking execution-style killing has left authorities puzzled, as they work to piece together possible scenarios and identify the masked perpetrator.
At approximately 16:15, the victim — a professor at the University of California, Berkeley — was walking along Eirinis Street when he was approached by an unknown man wearing a mask. According to reports, the assailant pulled out an Eastern European-made Makarov or Tokarev pistol, fired five rounds, and killed him instantly.
“He was on his way to pick up his children from his ex-wife’s home,” said Alexandros Pasiatas, the lawyer of the professor’s former spouse, a Greek economist.
Authorities are also examining the possibility that the killer had an accomplice. Surveillance footage shows the suspect fleeing on foot before entering a waiting vehicle driven by another person. Police have reportedly traced part of their escape route using CCTV cameras positioned closely throughout the area.
The professor’s brother arrived from Poland to follow the investigation, while the former wife provided more than eight hours of testimony at the Athens General Police Directorate (GADA). She described her life with the professor in detail, though she noted that since their separation, contact had been limited to matters concerning their twin children.
The current partner of the former wife also came forward for questioning. So far, there is no evidence linking the professor to illegal activities, prompting investigators to focus on personal relationships and contacts.
According to police, the killer appeared to know the professor’s schedule well, suggesting premeditation. The professor had recently traveled to Greece to attend court hearings regarding child custody and had rented an Airbnb in Kolonaki. On the morning of the murder, he and his ex-wife had taken their children to a psychologist before going their separate ways.
Investigators believe there may be a moral instigator behind the crime, whose identity could reveal the true motive. Particular attention is being paid to the professor’s international travel history and communications on his mobile phone.
Live News uncovered a video from a conference held in Greece in 2022 focusing on short-term rentals. The murdered professor had participated virtually, offering insights into algorithms used by online platforms. He had been recommended as a speaker by his then-wife, who did not disclose that they were romantically involved at the time.
The case continues to unfold as forensic experts and detectives work tirelessly to solve this chilling mystery.