Heavy Police Presence in Agrinio
The region of Makryneia remains under tight police supervision after the killing of the 50 year old village chief of Lithovouni, as authorities worry about potential retaliation from either side of the involved families.
The Suspect Appears Before Prosecutors
Strong police forces have been deployed throughout the area as the 44 year old suspect is expected to appear before the Prosecutors Office on Sunday 18 1, heightening the sense of tension across the community.
A Community in Shock
Local residents are deeply shaken by the violent incident which is believed to have stemmed from personal disputes between the two men. According to area reports the suspect and the victim were once friends but financial disagreements and a suspected relationship between the 44 year old and the village chiefs wife appear to have fueled the conflict.
The Confession That Raised More Questions
The suspect allegedly called authorities saying Come get me and admitted firing the first shots. He explained that earlier that morning he had been at the village cafe where he overheard the victim talking about going hunting with a weapon stored in his vehicle. Claiming he became alarmed he followed the victim after he left.
His Version of Events
In his statement which local outlets reported on Saturday 17 1 the suspect described seeing the victim point a gun at him from inside the vehicle leading him to shoot first. He insisted that had he not acted the victim would have.
Evidence Contradicting the Claim
Images from the crime scene however show extensive bullet damage to the rear of the victim vehicle indicating shots were fired from behind. This detail has led investigators to doubt the suspects account as they continue to examine every angle of the case.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Both weapons have been sent to forensic laboratories for thorough analysis. Authorities will also take statements from both families and from witnesses who were present at the cafe that morning as they work to reconstruct the sequence of events.
