In brief
A gas leak exploded in a three‑storey building in Athens’ Plaka district, killing six people, among them a British tourist, four Americans, and a Greek couple. The blast, occurring just steps from the Acropolis, collapsed the structure and damaged surrounding buildings. Authorities suspect a faulty gas line, and emergency crews are still searching the rubble for survivors. Officials describe the event as an "incredible disaster" and have evacuated nearby residents for safety.
Six people lost their lives in a sudden explosion that collapsed a three‑storey holiday‑rental building in Athens’ historic Plaka district, situated mere steps from the Acropolis.
Authorities have linked the blast to a suspected gas leak, with emergency crews combing the rubble for survivors.
The victims include four American tourists, a UK national and a Greek elderly couple who lived in the same building.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas described the incident as "an incredible disaster," and the UK Foreign Office confirmed the authorities were in touch with local police.
The explosion occurred on a narrow road between the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, where residential buildings have recently been converted into vacation rentals.
Thermal imaging cameras and excavators are still on the scene, searching for buried survivors while nearby residents are being evacuated for safety.
