Six people, including a British national, have been killed after an explosion destroyed a three-storey building in central Athens, Greece.
The blast occurred on Friday in the Plaka district, a historic area located near major tourist attractions including the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Four American tourists were among those killed, alongside the British national and a Greek citizen. The Greek victim was reportedly an elderly man who lived in the building with his wife.
The explosion caused the entire building to collapse and damaged neighbouring properties. Debris was scattered across nearby streets, while some surrounding buildings were evacuated as emergency crews searched the area. All six bodies had been recovered by Saturday afternoon, according to reports.
Investigators believe a gas leak may have caused the explosion, although the circumstances remain under investigation. The American tourists were reportedly reported missing after failing to arrive at Athens International Airport for their scheduled flight later on Friday, Reuters reported, citing local police.
Emergency workers used excavators and thermal imaging equipment while searching through the rubble for survivors. Some people were also reportedly injured by debris thrown into nearby streets.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas described the incident as an “incredible disaster” as emergency operations continued at the scene. The explosion happened on a small road between the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, placing the incident close to some of the Greek capital’s most visited landmarks.
A spokesperson for the UK’s Foreign Office said the government was aware of the suspected explosion and was in contact with Greek authorities. Authorities are continuing to investigate the suspected gas leak and the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
White House Bars CNN From Air Force One Trip with Trump
