Athens (Rajeev Sharma): Six people have died after an explosion caused a two-storey building to collapse in Plaka, one of the historic and heavily visited areas of the Greek capital near the Acropolis.
The blast occurred on Friday morning, sending debris across the surrounding street and damaging nearby properties. Greek media reported that personal documents and belongings recovered from the site indicated that four of the victims were US citizens — two men and two women.
Authorities believe a significant gas leak may have triggered the explosion. Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said buildings surrounding the damaged property were also affected and had to be evacuated as a precaution.
Firefighters searched through the remains of the building throughout the rescue operation. The effort involved around 30 firefighters and three trained search dogs, with teams working through the rubble to locate victims.
Two women in a neighbouring building were injured, according to the fire brigade. Several people rescued from the adjoining property were tourists staying in the area, according to a local resident.
Images from the scene showed extensive debris scattered over the road, with several parked vehicles damaged by falling material. The blast also affected a nearby church, prompting its pastor to announce that Sunday’s service would be conducted outdoors.
The incident took place in Plaka, a historic neighbourhood situated at the base of the Acropolis hill and one of Athens’ major tourist destinations. Authorities have launched an investigation to establish the precise circumstances that led to the explosion.
