Four-story residential building collapses in Petralona, Athens

On Tuesday, June 30, a four-story apartment building located at 22 Alkminis Street in Petralona, Athens, collapsed. The building, which contained seven apartments, gave way during construction work being performed at an adjacent plot where a five-story structure was permitted. Initial reports indicated that four residents were trapped, but firefighting officials confirmed that all occupants successfully evacuated the premises before the collapse occurred. Authorities detained five individuals in connection with the incident, including the building owner, the contractor, the lead engineer, and two workers, as a criminal investigation has been launched. Emergency response teams, including specialized units of the EMAK rescue service, continue to scan the rubble as a precaution to ensure no one remains hidden. The Athens Municipality is currently providing support and temporary housing to those displaced by the incident. Preliminary evidence suggests the ongoing excavation at the neighboring property may have compromised the structural integrity of the affected building.