A significant explosion occurred in the Plaka neighbourhood of central Athens, resulting in at least one confirmed death and five individuals reported missing. The blast destroyed a three-storey residential building that reportedly functioned as a holiday rental property. The missing individuals are said to include four American tourists, one British national, and one Greek citizen, though authorities have not formally confirmed these details.
The explosion caused extensive structural damage, with the building suffering complete collapse from the force of the blast. Surrounding buildings sustained damage as well, and debris was scattered across the nearby roadway. The incident took place on a small street positioned between two major tourist attractions in the capital: the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, situating it in one of Athens’ most frequently visited areas.
Emergency response teams deployed to the scene immediately, with search and rescue operations continuing to locate missing persons. Excavation equipment and thermal imaging cameras were brought in to assist with the recovery effort. The body of a woman was recovered on Saturday morning during the ongoing search.
Authorities are investigating a gas leak as the likely cause of the blast. The missing tourists were identified as unaccounted for when they failed to arrive for their scheduled flight at Athens airport, according to local police reports cited by Reuters. British authorities have been notified regarding the missing British national involved in the incident.
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