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Six dead after explosion destroys building in Athens
Rescue crews found six bodies after the blast, and investigators are examining a likely gas leak as nearby homes, shops and cars were damaged.
On Friday, a residential building in Athens' Plaka district collapsed following an explosion, killing six people near the Acropolis and Temple of Zeus.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas stated the blast was likely linked to gas infrastructure, prompting the Arson Crimes Division to investigate reports of a gas smell in the area.
Around 30 firefighters deployed six vehicles and three specially trained dogs, assisted by sensors, searching the debris for an elderly couple and four tourists trapped in the collapsed apartments.
Authorities initiated investigations into the blast's cause, with fire brigade officials and crime units examining the site for evidence of negligence or infrastructure failure.
Plaka, the tourist hub famous for proximity to the Acropolis, faces ongoing operational challenges as adjacent buildings remain evacuated and emergency crews continue probing the collapsed structure.