Emergency crews recovered six bodies after an explosion in the Plaka tourist district near the Acropolis in Athens on Friday morning, Greek broadcaster ERT reported. A British man and his Greek wife are believed to be among the dead, according to local reports.
Victims identified
The Briton and his partner were reportedly both in their 70s and lived on the second floor of the building overlooking the Hadrian's Gate monument. American nationals staying in a short-term rental on the first floor were also killed, ERT said.
Cause and response
The blast is believed to have been caused by a massive gas leak, Athens mayor Haris Doukas said on Friday night. Images showed responders working around the building, which had been reduced to rubble.
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: "We are aware of a suspected explosion in Athens and are in touch with the local authorities. We stand ready to offer assistance to British nationals abroad 24/7."
