Three suspects jailed for fatal Plaka building explosion

On November 2, 2026, three suspects were ordered to be held in pre-trial detention following the explosion at a neoclassical building on Lysikratous Street in Plaka, which resulted in six deaths on September 25. The suspects, two Greek men aged 37 and 55 and a 34-year-old Albanian national, face felony charges including arson, explosion, and multiple counts of manslaughter with possible intent, alongside a misdemeanor for dangerous bodily harm.

During their testimony, the accused admitted to breaking into the building hours before the tragedy to steal copper gas pipes. While they acknowledged noticing the smell of gas, they attempted to deflect responsibility for the resulting explosion, with some shifting blame onto one another regarding the physical act of cutting the pipes. The 55-year-old defendant expressed remorse but maintained his innocence regarding the blast.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the exact sequence of events, bolstered by newly released video footage capturing the moment of the explosion. The court proceedings remain ongoing as officials work to determine the final legal culpability for the disaster.