One dead and five missing after explosion destroys building close to Acropolis in Athens

What the report says

At least two people have died and four others are missing after an explosion tore through a building in Athens’ Plaka district, near the Acropolis and other major tourist sites, according to BBC World News. The blast destroyed a three-storey property that local media said included a holiday rental, and emergency crews were still searching the rubble. The incident was reported on 26 September 2026.

BBC World News said an American man and woman were among the dead, while two other US tourists were missing. A Greek national and a UK national who lived in the building were also reported missing. The tourists were said to have been listed as missing after failing to arrive for a flight at Athens airport. Local officials suspected a gas leak may have caused the explosion, though that was not confirmed in the report.

The force of the blast damaged neighbouring buildings and scattered debris across the street. Fire crews, excavators and thermal imaging cameras were being used to look for survivors, and some nearby residents were evacuated. Athens Mayor Haris Doukas described the scene as a major disaster. The case highlights the risks posed by gas incidents in densely built historic districts, especially areas that host both residents and short-term visitors.