Explosion in Athens' Plaka district topples building and injures several people

A powerful explosion erupted in Athens' Plaka neighbourhood, the historic quarter that borders the Acropolis, causing an old two-story building to collapse. The blast also damaged surrounding structures and sent debris onto the street, shattering parked cars. Fire department crews pulled two women from a neighboring building and escorted them to a medical facility; police added that a passer-by sustained a slight injury.

The area has been cordoned off while rescue teams continue to check for anyone else trapped under the rubble. One outlet's reports suggest a gas leak may have triggered the blast, but officials have not yet identified a definitive cause.