A man has been accused of killing a British tourist who vanished during a night out with friends while vacationing in Greece two decades ago.
Steven Cook, a 20-year-old from Sandbach in Cheshire, disappeared in the town of Malia in Crete on September 1, 2005, during his first solo trip overseas. His remains were discovered in a well by workers in 2017, but there had been no significant progress in the case since then.
Cheshire Police have reported that they are collaborating with Greek authorities following the emergence of new information. This development came after a lawyer based in Crete, Ioannis Kostantoudakis, who had represented Steven’s family at the time of the body’s discovery, disclosed that the former wife of another British tourist had come forward.
The ex-wife claimed that her 38-year-old ex-partner had confessed to killing Steven while under the influence of drugs after the body was found. She alleged that her former spouse admitted to engaging in a drunken altercation with a young man in Malia, resulting in the victim’s fatal head injury. According to her, the ex then disposed of the body in a well following the alleged conflict.
Chris Cook, Steven’s elder brother at 50, stated that the family received this news shortly after the 20th anniversary of his disappearance, evoking complex emotions. He expressed doubts about finding a sense of justice through legal proceedings, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss and emotional turmoil the family had endured over the past two decades.
This year’s anniversary marked the first time the family commemorated the occasion without both parents, who had passed away in recent years. An investigating judge in Greece has transferred the case to the Mixed Jury Court of Heraklion for a hearing scheduled on October 21.
According to Mr. Kostantoudakis, Greek law allows the case to proceed in the absence of the suspect, although the court may order his physical presence if deemed necessary, potentially leading to an extradition request to UK authorities.
Cheshire Police confirmed their awareness of the latest developments, including the filing of a murder charge in Mr. Cook’s case, and indicated cooperation with Greek counterparts. They affirmed ongoing support for Steven’s family through specialized officers.
In remembrance of his brother, Chris Cook shared fond memories, including attending the 2005 Champions League final between Liverpool and AC Milan, a match Liverpool won on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw. He described Steven as a beloved individual with a kind-hearted nature, deeply cherished by friends and acquaintances for his positive qualities.
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