Explosion Destroys Building Near Acropolis in Athens, One Dead and Five Missing

A devastating explosion has destroyed a three-storey building in the historic centre of Athens, leaving one person dead and five others missing. The blast occurred in the Plaka area, close to tourist sites such as the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

A group of tourists, identified by Reuters as missing, failed to materialize at Athens airport on Saturday morning, prompting a frantic search operation. The discovery of a woman'It was body earlier that day has been followed by a thorough investigation.

With authorities now focusing on locating the remaining individuals. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses reported seeing debris scattered across nearby streets, prompting evacuations of several buildings.

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The building housed a holiday rental property, and the explosion is believed to have been caused by a gas leak. The tourists were from the US, with four Americans confirmed to be among those involved. The Greek national who lived in the building is also missing.

The Foreign Office has been contacted by BBC News. And officials are working closely with international partners to provide assistance to the affected families.

The explosion has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many residents expressing their condolences to the families of the victims. The BBC has reported that the incident has raised concerns about the safety of tourist infrastructure in Athens. With the UK Foreign Office urging its citizens to exercise caution when visiting the city.

Thermal imaging cameras and excavators are being deployed at the site to scour for signs of life. As the probe into the blast continues, officials are racing against time to pinpoint the trigger behind the devastating explosion. A US resident who was in the vicinity when the blast occurred has stepped forward.

They revealed that they were left shaken but remarkably unscathed.

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The blast has had a significant impact on the local community, with several buildings in the area evacuated as a precaution. The AFP has reported that the Greek government has activated its emergency response plan. With teams on the ground working to provide support to those affected.

The incident is a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety of tourists and locals alike. As the investigation continues, officials are urging everyone to remain calm and to cooperate with the authorities. The people of Athens are coming together to support those affected by the blast.

And the international community is offering its condolences and assistance.