A massive explosion has caused a two-storey building to collapse near the Acropolis in Athens, leaving five people unaccounted for and two women rescued from the rubble. Three tourists are believed to be among the missing.
The blast struck the area following a suspected gas leak, causing the façade of a 20th-century property to crumble. Police, paramedics and fire crews rushed to Lysicratous Street, just minutes from the Acropolis, shortly after 7.30am local time this morning, approximately 5.30am BST, with the surrounding area quickly cordoned off.
Rescue operation underway
The Greek fire service confirmed that five people remain unaccounted for. Two women were rescued from the building in Plaka, one of the oldest districts in the Greek capital, and were subsequently taken to hospital. The fire service confirmed that 24 firefighters were deployed at the scene.
The explosion is reported to have triggered a fire, according to eKathimerini. Smoke was visible rising from the scene, with windows blown out and vehicles damaged in the vicinity of the stricken building. Shocked bystanders looked on as debris was scattered across the narrow streets.
Cause under investigation
The cause of the explosion has yet to be officially confirmed, though the blast is thought to have resulted from a suspected gas leak, according to ERT. Neighbouring buildings close to the explosion site also sustained damage, according to information released by the Fire Service.
