Four American tourists were among six people killed when a residential building in Athens’ historic Plaka district exploded on Thursday, authorities said. The blast was believed to have been caused by a suspected gas leak.
The explosion occurred in a multi‑storey apartment block in the heart of Plaka, a neighbourhood known for its narrow streets and neoclassical architecture. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene within minutes, but the force of the blast had already claimed lives.
In total, six people lost their lives, including the four Americans who were on holiday in Greece. The identities of the victims and the circumstances of their presence in the building were not yet released by the police.
Greek authorities are investigating the incident and have ruled out any foul play, citing the gas leak as the most likely cause. Fire and safety officials are reviewing the building’s gas infrastructure in the wake of the tragedy.
Plaka, one of Athens’ oldest districts, is a popular tourist destination. The blast has shocked the community and prompted calls for stricter safety inspections in the city’s historic residential areas.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>