Two dead after explosion destroys building in Athens

Two fatalities and four people remain missing following a residential building collapse caused by an explosion in central Athens. The blast destroyed a two-story structure in Plaka, a tourist district near popular landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. The explosion resulted in injuries to three individuals and extensive damage to surrounding houses, shops, and vehicles, with debris scattering up to three blocks away.

Rescue efforts, involving emergency crews in protective gear and rescue dogs, are currently focused on finding an elderly couple who lived in one apartment and four tourists residing in another. The bodies of a man and a young woman were recovered this morning amidst the rubble, which consisted of twisted metal, shattered tiles, and concrete slabs.

The rescue operation is complex due to the majority of the building having collapsed, and there is a risk to adjacent buildings, which have been evacuated for safety. The tourists - two American couples - were scheduled to depart from Athens airport yesterday. The cause of the blast, which occurred in an area known for hotels and short-term rentals, remains unclear, though it is speculated to be related to gas infrastructure.

Mayor Haris Doukas suggested the incident may be linked to issues with gas lines, stating, "Something went terribly wrong."