Wellington death: Son revealed as suspected killer of Irene Katsougiannis, died in Hong Kong

A Wellington mother of three is thought to have been killed by her son, who died in Hong Kong the same day police discovered her body.

Irene Katsougiannis, 62, was found dead in her Miramar home on Monday and the Herald understands her son, Soteri Katsougiannis, who was listed as living at the property with her, is suspected of killing her.

He died in Hong Kong the same day her body was discovered.

Local reporting did not identify the man but said he was transported to hospital before his death.

Police had earlier confirmed Irene’s killer was a man known to her, and confirmed the Herald’s reporting when contacted.

The Herald understands Katsougiannis owned the property where she was found. She had worked as a piano tutor at Queen Margaret College, and also coached netball in the community.

She had lost her husband six years previously.

The principal of Queen Margarets, Jayne-Ann Young, told the Herald she was deeply saddened at the loss of Irene.

“Queen Margaret College is saddened to learn of the passing of our very dear colleague and friend Irene Katsougiannis,” she said.

“Our thoughts are with her family. As always, we remain focused on the wellbeing of our staff, students and whānau throughout this difficult time.”

Vita Molyneux is a Wellington-based journalist who covers breaking news and stories from the capital. She has been a journalist since 2018 and joined the Herald in 2021.