6 People Are Missing After Explosion in Athens Tourist District

Key Points:

• Greek rescue teams are searching for six missing individuals, including at least four tourists, after a two-story building exploded and collapsed in Athens' central tourist area, Plaka.
• The explosion occurred around 7:30 a.m., causing significant damage to neighboring buildings and cars; a gas leak is suspected as the cause based on residents' reports of smelling gas prior to the blast.
• Among the missing are four tourists believed to be American— a couple, their son, and his girlfriend—who were staying on the first floor and expected to check out the morning of the incident; also missing is an elderly couple, a Briton and his Greek wife.
• Rescue efforts involved 30 firefighters, three dogs, thermal cameras, and heavy machinery, with authorities conducting an all-night search for survivors amid challenging conditions.
• Three individuals sustained minor injuries in the collapse, including two residents from nearby buildings and a passerby, with no serious harm reported.