The death toll after a powerful explosion and building collapse in Plaka has reached four. Two more people remain missing and the rescue operation continues.
The tragedy happened in the morning September 25 on Lysikratous Street in the historical center of Athens. After a strong explosion, a large part of the building collapsed, and the shock wave damaged neighboring houses, shops and parked cars.
According to the latest reports, rescuers have pulled out from under the rubble four bodies. The official identification procedure has not yet been completed.
According to preliminary information, in the short-term rental apartment on the ground floor there were four US citizens – two men and two women. An elderly Greek woman lived on the second floor with her British husband.
Now two people are still missing. The main search is focused on the last section of rubble with an area of about 20 square meters, where the layer of debris reaches 2–2.5 meters.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been established
The investigation is considering all possible versions. Eyewitnesses reported the smell of gas before the explosionhowever, authorities have not yet confirmed either the source of the possible leak or that it was the gas that caused the tragedy.
According to municipal authorities, the building had autonomous gas heating systems on individual floors. Their condition and possible connection with the explosion are currently being checked.
Rescuers rescued two women with minor injuries from a nearby building. Another passerby was wounded by shrapnel. The victims were taken to Gennimatas Hospital.
The explosion caused significant damage to the entire block: windows and doors were broken, building facades and cars were damaged.
EMAK rescuers continue to clear the rubble with extreme caution due to the risk of further collapse of structures.
Previously, Athens News reported on another major collapse of a residential building in Athens – in Petralona, where casualties were miraculously avoided in June.
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