A devastating fire in the town of Konitsa, Ioannina, claimed the lives of four elderly siblings early Monday, after flames engulfed the container home where they had lived for three decades. The blaze, which broke out inside the town limits, prompted a large emergency response and has left the local community in shock.
The four siblings — one man and three women, aged between 69 and 84 — had been living in the container since the major earthquake of 1996, which destroyed their family home. The temporary structure was placed on their land near the historic bridge of Konitsa and eventually became their permanent residence.
According to reports, the siblings had chosen to remain there despite offers of assistance to restore their home, although details about the available support and whether they were able to benefit from it remain unclear. Over the years, they became increasingly isolated and continued living in the container, where they eventually lost their lives.
The situation was known to the local community. The Municipality of Konitsa and the Church reportedly supported the siblings over the years, providing food and essential supplies despite their reluctance to accept help.
Authorities had previously raised concerns about their living conditions, with social services informing prosecutors and carrying out an inspection of the site.
Fire may have started from candle or oil lamp
The fatal fire broke out in the early hours under circumstances that remain unclear. Neighbors said the siblings had been living in difficult conditions, without electricity, and had faced health problems at times.
Investigators are examining whether the fire may have been caused by a candle or an oil lamp they used for lighting.
Police forces remain at the scene, while the Fire Department’s investigative unit is conducting an inquiry into the cause of the blaze.
Fire crews from Konitsa and Ioannina rushed to the scene with five vehicles and ten firefighters, battling the flames and securing the area. Alongside the Fire Service, officers from the Hellenic Police, an ambulance from EKAV, and investigators from the Fire Service’s Arson Unit also responded.
