Six people have died after a residential building collapsed in central Athens following a powerful explosion.
Greek authorities said the two-storey building collapsed in the popular Plaka area on Friday.
Four of the victims were American citizens, according to US officials.
Rescuers Recover Six Bodies
Emergency crews searched the destroyed building using rescue dogs, cameras and specialised sensors.
Fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said rescuers recovered six bodies from the debris.
They had been searching for an elderly couple who lived in one apartment.
Four tourists were also staying in another apartment when the explosion occurred.
The four tourists were reportedly two American couples.
A police source said they were due to take a flight from Athens airport at 3pm on Friday.
They did not arrive for the flight.
Gas Explosion Suspected
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said the blast was likely connected to gas infrastructure.
Reports of a gas smell had emerged in the area before the explosion.
The fire brigade’s crime investigation unit was also deployed to determine what caused the blast.
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause.
Blast Damages Nearby Area
The explosion caused extensive destruction in the surrounding area.
Nearby homes, shops and vehicles were damaged.
Rubble and broken glass were scattered as far as three blocks from the building.
The structure was reduced to twisted metal, shattered tiles and concrete.
Household items and clothing were also found among the debris.
The building was located in Plaka, close to major Athens landmarks including the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus.
US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle expressed sadness over the deaths of the four American citizens.
Authorities are continuing the investigation and identification process.
