ATHENS, Greece — Rescuers searching through the rubble of a two-story house that collapsed after an explosion in Athens’ historic Plaka district found six bodies Saturday, authorities said.
Documents and personal effects found in four of the victims – two men and two women – indicated they were US citizens, according to Greek public broadcaster ERT and other local media.
Friday’s explosion was believed to have been caused by a large gas leak, Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said. Neighboring buildings were damaged and evacuated, he added.
Plaka lies at the foot of the Acropolis, the most visited ancient monument in Greece.
Two women were injured in an adjacent building on Lysikratous Street, firefighters said. The search and rescue operation involved 30 firefighters and three dogs, and an investigation into the explosion was underway.
Video from the scene showed rubble strewn across the street and parked cars crushed by falling debris. Resident Andreas Martzaklis said all those rescued from the adjacent building were tourists.
The pastor of a nearby church said Sunday’s church service would be held outside because the building had been damaged.
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