Thessaloniki fire kills two in Oraio Kastro tragedy

A fast‑moving wildfire erupted near the village of Oraio Kastro, on the outskirts of Thessaloniki, after a lit cigarette is believed to have been tossed onto dry roadside vegetation. Video released by local media shows the ignition moment, and three vehicles were recorded passing the spot shortly before the blaze started.

Firefighters said the flames spread rapidly over about two kilometres, reaching the nearby settlement of Liti. The fire claimed the lives of a 60‑year‑old man and his 12‑year‑old son. Their wife survived with severe burns and was treated at Hippocrates Hospital. Authorities are investigating the drivers of the three vehicles, whose identities have been confirmed, to determine the precise cause of the incident.