A 55-year-old man from the Thessaloniki suburb of Epanomi is facing criminal charges after firing a shotgun into the air to scare off a group of teenagers who were making noise at a local playground. The incident left a 15-year-old boy injured and led to the man’s arrest.
The shooting occurred on Sunday night near a small 5-a-side football pitch situated between the suspect’s home and a nearby kindergarten — a spot known locally as a gathering place for children and teenagers.
According to police, the man was angered by the noise and shouting from the group. He later told authorities he fired the gun only to “frighten them” after, as he claimed, they insulted him and threw stones in his direction.
Teenager hospitalized, man arrested
The blast caused pellets to hit one of the teenagers, who suffered injuries to his legs, left arm, and chest area. The 15-year-old was taken by ambulance to a Hospital in Thessaloniki, where he remains under observation but out of danger, according to medical staff.
Police officers from the Thermaikos precinct arrested the shooter shortly after the incident. The firearm, which he legally owned, was confiscated.
Facing multiple charges
The public prosecutor has charged the 55-year-old with causing bodily harm and illegal use of a firearm. The unemployed electrician was referred to the Misdemeanors Court of Thessaloniki for a fast-track trial. His hearing was postponed, and he remains in custody until then.
