Five people are missing after an explosion collapsed a two-storey building near the Acropolis in Athens, the Greek fire service has confirmed. Three of the missing are reported to be tourists.
Blast near the Acropolis
The blast struck the area after a suspected gas leak, causing the facade of a 20th century property to crumble. Emergency services, including police, paramedics and fire crews, rushed to Lysicratous Street, a short distance from the Acropolis, shortly after 7.30am local time (5.30am BST), and the surrounding area was quickly cordoned off.
The explosion is reported to have ignited a fire, according to eKathimerini. Smoke was seen billowing above the scene, with shattered windows and damaged vehicles visible near the stricken building.
Rescue operation under way
The fire service confirmed that five people remain unaccounted for, as reported by the Mirror. Two women were rescued from the building, which is located in Plaka, one of the Greek capital's oldest neighbourhoods, and were subsequently transferred to hospital.
The fire service confirmed that 24 firefighters were deployed at the scene. The precise cause of the explosion has yet to be officially confirmed, though it is understood the blast was triggered by a suspected gas leak, according to ERT. Neighbouring buildings also sustained damage, as confirmed by the Fire Service.
