Greek journalist Maria Antonogiannaki found dead in her car in Heraklion, Crete
The 45-year-old KRITI TV journalist was discovered unresponsive in her parked vehicle on Sunday afternoon. Authorities are investigating the cause of death.
Discovery
Maria Antonogiannaki, a journalist for the KRITI TV group, was found dead inside her car on Sunday afternoon, 5 July 2026, in the Agios Ioannis area of Heraklion, Crete. The vehicle was parked when she was discovered without consciousness. An ambulance from the National Centre for Emergency Care (EKAV) arrived at the scene, but a doctor pronounced her dead.
Circumstances
According to local media, the initial assessment points to pathological causes. Security camera footage reportedly shows the 45-year-old carrying shopping bags before losing consciousness as she was exiting the car. Residents alerted emergency services, and paramedics attempted resuscitation without success.
Investigation
Police have collected video material from security cameras and are examining all possibilities. A coroner was called to the scene, and the body will be transferred to the University General Hospital of Heraklion (PAGNI) for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have not ruled out any scenario.
Victim
Maria Antonogiannaki was a respected journalist in Crete, described by colleagues as serving the profession with integrity and respect for human dignity. She was 45 years old, though some reports initially gave her age as 46. Her sudden death has caused grief among family, friends, and the local journalistic community.
