Kypseli infant death investigation reveals fatal stiletto wounds

Forensic evidence has emerged in the investigation of a deceased 8-to-9-month-old infant found in a freezer in Kypseli, contradicting claims made by the parents. While the 43-year-old father and 38-year-old mother alleged the child died of natural causes, forensic examinations revealed multiple wounds to the back and neck caused by a sharp, double-edged object resembling a stiletto. The autopsy indicates the cause of death was massive hemorrhage resulting from the rupture of spinal arteries, rather than the failure of a vital organ.

The parents have provided conflicting testimonies regarding the timing of the death, with one claiming it occurred in June 2023 and the other in June 2022. Investigators are also examining whether the infant suffered from neonatal withdrawal syndrome due to parental drug use, as the parents have admitted to being users and described the child as having chronic issues with crying, feeding, and sleep.

The case has highlighted significant gaps in child protection services. Kostas Giannopoulos, president of ‘Smile of a Child’, stated that complaints regarding the family's living conditions, including neglect and substance abuse, had been filed as early as 2020. He noted that despite previous interventions and the temporary placement of the children in care, there was a lack of sustained follow-up and communication between authorities and social services.