ATHENS, September 27, 2026 — Four American tourists were among six people killed after a powerful explosion destroyed a residential building in Athens’ historic Plaka district, near the Acropolis, Greek and US officials said. Authorities believe the blast may have been caused by a gas leak, although an investigation into the exact cause is continuing.
The explosion occurred early Friday and caused the two-storey building to collapse, scattering debris and broken glass across nearby streets. Rescue teams later recovered the bodies of all six people who had initially been reported missing.
Four American Tourists Among Victims
The four American victims were reportedly two couples who were staying in the building during their visit to Athens. They were expected to travel to the airport on Friday for their return flight to the United States but did not arrive.
The US ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, confirmed the deaths of the four American citizens and said the US Embassy was providing assistance to their families.
Elderly British Man and Greek Wife Also Killed
The other two victims were an elderly British man and his Greek wife, who lived in another apartment in the building, according to Greek state broadcaster ERT and other reports.
Rescue crews used specialist equipment, including thermal cameras, sensors and search dogs, while working through the rubble. The bodies were eventually recovered and taken for identification.
Gas Leak Suspected in Athens Explosion
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said the explosion was believed to be linked to a major gas leak. Fire investigators and other authorities were examining the site to establish exactly what caused the blast.
Reports also indicated that people in the area had previously raised concerns about possible gas leaks and other safety risks. Greek authorities are investigating whether those warnings were connected to the incident.
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Nearby Buildings and Streets Damaged
The blast caused extensive damage beyond the building where it occurred. Nearby houses, shops and vehicles were damaged, while debris reportedly travelled several blocks from the explosion site. Two women in an adjacent building were also injured.
The incident took place in Plaka, a historic district at the foot of the Acropolis, one of Greece’s most visited landmarks. Authorities evacuated nearby properties while emergency crews carried out the search and rescue operation.
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