Explosion in Athens building results in six fatalities, including tourists

An explosion in the Plaka district of Athens on Friday resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including a British national and four American tourists. The incident occurred in a building that housed a holiday rental property, located near historic sites such as the Acropolis. Local authorities reported that the deceased included an elderly Greek couple who resided in the same building. Emergency services responded to the scene, where the building was reduced to rubble, and a gas leak is suspected to be the cause of the explosion. By Saturday afternoon, all six bodies had been recovered. Athens Mayor Haris Doukas described the event as an 'incredible disaster.' The tourists were reported missing after failing to arrive for their flight at Athens airport later on Friday, according to Reuters. The explosion caused significant damage, collapsing the three-storey building and affecting nearby structures. Local media indicated that some individuals were injured by debris scattered in the vicinity, prompting evacuations of adjacent buildings. Excavators and thermal imaging cameras were deployed to search for any potential survivors. The explosion occurred on a road situated between the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office confirmed awareness of the situation and stated that they are in contact with local authorities.