Five individuals, including three tourists, are feared missing in Athens following a massive explosion that brought down a two-storey structure near the Acropolis. The blast tore through the area amid suspicions of a gas leak, causing the frontage of a 20th century property to crumble.
Emergency response and rescue efforts
Emergency services, including police, paramedics and firefighters, rushed to Lysicratous Street - mere minutes from the Acropolis - shortly after 7.30am local time this morning, approximately 5.30am BST, with the vicinity swiftly sealed off. The explosion reportedly triggered a blaze, according to eKathimerini.
The Greek fire service confirmed five individuals are unaccounted for, the Mirror reports. Shocked witnesses observed debris scattered across the narrow thoroughfares.
Damage and casualties
Meanwhile, plumes of smoke billowed from the scene, while shattered windows and damaged vehicles littered the area surrounding the stricken building. The fire brigade revealed it had pulled two women from the structure in Plaka, amongst the Greek capital's most ancient districts.
Both casualties were transported to hospital. The fire service stated 24 firefighters were deployed to the incident, though stopped short of confirming what triggered the explosion.
Possible cause and impact
The blast is thought to have resulted from a suspected gas leak, ERT reports. Neighbouring properties close to the explosion site also sustained damage, fire service sources indicated.
