Six people, including four U. S.
citizens, were killed after a suspected gas leak explosion collapsed a three-story building in Athens' historic Plaka district near the Acropolis.
Emergency workers recovered the final bodies on Saturday afternoon after an intensive search using thermal imaging cameras, excavators, and rescue dogs.
The victims included four American tourists, a British national, and a Greek resident. Two women in an adjacent building were injured.
The blast destroyed a structure housing a holiday rental property on a street between the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Search efforts began after the tourists missed their departure flight at Athens airport later on Friday.
Investigation and Response
Severe structural damage affected neighboring buildings on Lysikratous Street, scattering debris across roads and crushing parked vehicles, prompting immediate evacuations.
"We are talking about an incredible disaster," said Haris Doukas, Mayor of Athens.
Authorities confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, while local religious services in damaged nearby buildings were relocated outdoors.
"We are aware of a suspected explosion in Athens and are in touch with the local authorities," said a spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office.
