Six people were killed Friday when a two-story building collapsed in a tourist area of central Athens, Greece’s fire service said Saturday. The collapse followed an explosion that the mayor of Athens said was likely connected to the city’s gas infrastructure.
The blast took place Friday morning in Plaka, a popular tourist neighborhood near the ancient Acropolis, and sent debris throughout the block.
The U.S. State Department on Saturday confirmed the death of the four Americans as the result of a gas explosion.
Emergency crews, assisted by search dogs, cameras and sensors, recovered the bodies of six people, a fire service spokesperson said in a televised statement.
A fire service forensic investigation unit was also dispatched to the scene to determine the cause of the explosion. Initial reports indicated that the smell of gas had been detected in the area, which is home to numerous hotels and short-term rental properties.
U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle posted a statement on X, Saturday that four U.S. citizens were among the dead.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and the loved ones of those killed and injured in this horrific incident. Our hearts are with them during this difficult time. I extend my deepest appreciation to the Greek first responders who worked tirelessly at the scene,” she said adding that U.S. embassy is working with the families.
Two people in an adjacent building were injured, according to Mayor Haris Doukas and fire officials.
