Grief continues to sweep through the village of Vorizia, Crete, as residents mourn the second victim of a deadly shootout that erupted last week. Today, the funeral of 56-year-old Evaggelia Fragkiadaki will be held at the Church of the Holy Cross, following the burial of 39-year-old victim yesterday.
The community is still reeling from the violent confrontation, which left two dead and four others seriously injured, while an atmosphere of fear lingers over the village amid concerns of further violence.
Heightened Police Action
In response, Greek authorities have intensified their operations. Overnight, officers from the Organized Crime Unit conducted a raid at Alikarnassos Prison, where relatives of the victims are being held. A mobile phone was seized and sent for forensic analysis, potentially aiding ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, the three brothers allegedly involved in the shootout — aged 19, 27, and 29 — are expected to surrender soon, possibly after today’s funeral. Despite extensive searches of homes in Heraklion and Rethymno, police have yet to locate them. Authorities have also conducted checks at relatives’ residences and warned that other individuals may be involved.
Rising Tensions
The families involved continue to face threats. Relatives of the 56-year-old victim reported that they have received death threats and warnings of explosives. Authorities are working to de-escalate tensions and ensure public safety.
Schools in the area, which have been closed temporarily, are scheduled to reopen Wednesday or Thursday, with the Education Ministry coordinating with local officials and psychologists to support students and teachers.
The Shootout and Investigation
According to the case file, the incident followed an explosion at a family home on Friday night. Retaliatory gunfire erupted between the two families the next morning, resulting in multiple casualties. The 39-year-old victim was fatally shot inside his vehicle, while Evaggelia Fragkiadaki was found dead at the scene.
Other injured individuals include a 25-year-old, a 30-year-old, a 26-year-old, and a 53-year-old, all receiving treatment at local hospitals. Fortunately, a passing couple caught in the crossfire escaped uninjured despite their car being riddled with bullets.
Police have seized firearms during the investigation, and warrants for the three brothers are expected in the coming days. Officers are engaging with elders from the families to encourage a peaceful surrender.
