The man, husband of Kargakis’s sister, was initially arrested earlier on Wednesday afternoon for violations of gun laws after police found weapons stored in a cave located on his property. Official police statements confirm that the 43-year-old man has been linked to the shooting incident.

Official Police Statement:

Following previous announcements, the ongoing investigation by the Heraklion Crime Investigation Department identified a 43-year-old Greek national involved in the armed confrontation in a settlement in Heraklion, Crete, which resulted in two fatalities.

The individual was arrested today after police discovered and confiscated weapons, ammunition, and other related items in an open area on his property.

A case file has been filed against him under the immediate arrest procedure, and he will be brought before the competent authorities. The pre-investigation material regarding his involvement and role in the incident has been submitted to the investigative authority for further action.

The Victim, Evangelia Fragkiadaki, Was Shot with a Kalashnikov

At least three types of weapons were reportedly used during the deadly clash that claimed the lives of Fanouris Kargakis and 56-year-old Evangelia Fragkiadaki.

Preliminary assessments suggest the weapons involved were 9mm pistols, a Kalashnikov rifle, and a hunting shotgun. Ballistics tests are underway to determine the exact number of each weapon used.

Evangelia Fragkiadaki suffered a through-and-through wound with a long trajectory, indicating she was likely hit by the Kalashnikov.

Background on the Incident and Arrests

Police sources report that 39-year-old Kargakis, whose hands tested positive for gunpowder residue, and four brothers currently detained in connection with the event, possessed 9mm pistols used during the attack.

The three brothers surrendered voluntarily on Tuesday afternoon after initial hesitation due to fears of confrontation with the police special operations unit (OPKE). Their surrender was carefully arranged in secrecy outside the city with the involvement of the head of the local police department (DAOE).

Three vans transported the accused under lawyer supervision to the Heraklion Police Headquarters, where they arrived at 6:20 PM. This voluntary surrender is expected to be a favorable factor in their legal case.

Hiding in Mountains and Safe Houses

Following the shooting, the three men initially took refuge in the mountains, later staying at homes of acquaintances in the wider area.

Tomorrow begins the challenging legal battle as their defense lawyers prepare to request mitigating circumstances, aiming to highlight aspects of the case “not yet heard.”

Additional Context

Within the involved families, two women with past convictions related to drug offenses, who were sentenced with suspended sentences, have also been mentioned.