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[INTERNATIONAL] · Greece, United States, United Kingdom · 25 sources

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Plaka explosion kills six in Athens building collapse

A fatal explosion and building collapse in the Plaka district of Athens has resulted in the deaths of six people. The victims include four American citizens—two couples who were on a honeymoon trip—one British citizen, and one Greek citizen.

Investigators from the Directorate for the Investigation of Arson Crimes are focusing on a potential natural gas leak on the second floor of the building on Lysicratous Street. This floor was the only one with an active natural gas installation, which reportedly dates back to 1995. Experts are examining whether a spark, possibly from a light switch, triggered the blast. Gas meters and piping sections have been seized for laboratory testing.

Following the incident, the Athens Municipality and urban planning departments have initiated structural safety inspections of neighboring buildings to assess damage caused by the shockwave. Some nearby structures have sustained significant damage and may require demolition or extensive repairs. Authorities continue to work on identifying the victims through DNA testing as relatives arrive in Greece.

Entities

Arson Crimes Directorate · Athens Municipality · Directorate for the Investigation of Arson Crimes · EMAK · Edmond Hicks · Fire Service · Florinda Hoxha · Greece · Harris Dukas · Kimberly Guilfoyle · Lysicratous Street · National Technical University of Athens

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