The search operation at the site of the collapsed building in Plaka has ended in tragedy, with rescuers locating the final two missing bodies on Saturday afternoon. The death toll from Friday’s devastating explosion now stands at six.
The two bodies were found at around 2pm on Saturday, September 26, by firefighters searching through the rubble of the building on Lysikratous Street.
The discovery brought the major search and rescue operation to an end after hours of painstaking work under extremely difficult conditions.
The operation began following the powerful explosion on Friday morning, which caused the building to collapse and left several people trapped beneath the debris.
Around 30 firefighters took part in the operation using six vehicles, including two specialised rescue vehicles from the 1st EMAK. Three search and rescue dogs were also deployed.
Rescuers used specialist geophones to detect possible sounds beneath the rubble, along with cameras designed to search inaccessible areas.
The Municipality of Athens also provided heavy machinery to assist firefighters with the removal of debris and other materials.
Reports of a gas smell before the explosion
Questions are now emerging over reports that a gas smell had allegedly been noticed in the area in the weeks before the deadly explosion.
The citizens’ movement “Stay Active” published a social media post referring to a complaint from a resident of Lysikratous Street, who claimed that a gas smell had been detected in the area.
The resident also alleged that relevant investigations had been postponed until November because of the high tourist season.
Greek Police spokesperson Constantia Dimoglidou confirmed to ERTnews that authorities had received reports from residents about a possible gas smell before the explosion.
However, authorities have not yet determined the source or type of gas involved.
The Fire Department is conducting the preliminary investigation into the cause of the explosion.
Authorities have stressed that determining exactly what caused the blast will now be a key focus following the completion of the search operation.
Extensive damage across Plaka
The explosion caused extensive damage well beyond the collapsed building.
Homes, businesses and vehicles throughout the surrounding block and nearby streets were affected, with windows, shutters and glass shattered by the force of the blast.
Cars parked along Lysikratous Street were also damaged.
Municipal authorities have carried out initial inspections of neighbouring buildings. Based on the first assessment, buildings adjacent to the explosion site are currently considered unsafe for habitation and will require repairs.
Further inspections are expected now that the search operation has concluded, allowing authorities to establish the full extent of the structural damage.
The discovery of the final two victims brings a devastating end to the rescue operation, while the investigation into what caused the explosion is now expected to intensify.
