Thessaloniki forest fire kills two, leaves 12‑year‑old missing

A forest fire broke out on 30 June 2026 at about 14:30 in low vegetation at Derbeni, near the municipality of Oraiokastro, Thessaloniki, Greece. Strong winds drove the flames toward the village of Liti, prompting two 112 alerts that ordered evacuation of residents to the local football field. More than 115 firefighters, three forest‑commando units, 36 fire vehicles and aerial support—including ten firefighting aircraft and three helicopters—worked to contain the blaze, which is now judged to be without an active front.

Two fatalities have been confirmed. A 66‑year‑old man was found dead outside the burning house, and his 40‑year‑old wife was rescued with serious burns and is being treated at the Hippocrates Hospital. A second charred body was discovered later inside the home; authorities fear it may be the family’s 12‑year‑old son, who remains missing and is the subject of an ongoing search and forensic identification.

The fire has caused extensive damage to forested land and threatened nearby homes, but the coordinated response has prevented further loss of life. Investigations continue into the exact cause of the fire and the identity of the second victim.