The 60-year-old man accused of stabbing two American tourists outside the Acropolis in Athens is due to appear before an investigating judge on Thursday after being granted additional time to prepare his defense.

Greek prosecutors have charged the suspect with attempted murder, as well as the misdemeanor offences of illegal possession and use of a weapon.

According to authorities, the suspect was arrested by Athens police shortly after the attack. He is reportedly homeless, has a criminal record and is believed to have a history of mental health issues, including a previous court-ordered involuntary psychiatric hospitalization. He had also previously been arrested for carrying a knife.

Attack outside the Acropolis

The incident took place shortly after 8 a.m. on Tuesday near the entrance to the Acropolis archaeological site, opposite the Acropolis Museum.

According to investigators, the suspect approached and randomly attacked two passing tourists—a man and a woman—using a knife. Both victims sustained minor injuries.

Witnesses said the couple, identified as Greek-American tourists, were caught completely by surprise. Bystanders immediately called for emergency assistance and alerted the police.

The injured tourists were taken by ambulance to the General Hospital of Athens “Hellenic Red Cross,” where they received medical treatment. According to medical sources, neither victim’s injuries is considered life-threatening.