Μake us preferred on Google Newly released security footage shows the moment a powerful explosion tore through an apartment building in Athens’ historic Plaka district, killing six people on September 21.
A camera installed in a neighboring building recorded a flash followed by a deafening blast that triggered alarms in nearby buildings. Thick black smoke quickly spread across the area as debris was thrown into the air.
The footage emerged as investigators continue examining the circumstances of the explosion and the actions of three men accused of causing the gas leak that led to the blast.
Three suspects remanded in custody
The three defendants were ordered held in pretrial detention on Monday,following approximately six hours of questioning. The decision was made jointly by the investigating magistrate and prosecutor, who were not persuaded by their explanations.
According to information from the proceedings, none of the men accepted responsibility for cutting the pipe, and they blamed one another for the action. However, all three are said to have acknowledged that they smelled gas after the pipe was removed.
The suspects — two Greek nationals and one Albanian national — admitted being inside the building but denied that their actions caused the explosion.
Second video shows suspects after the blast
A separate security camera recording from the nearby Neos Kosmos neighborhood has also become an important part of the investigation.
The footage shows the three suspects approximately one hour after the explosion. They have been identified as a 55-year-old man known by the nickname “Boubou,” a 37-year-old man known as “Argyris,” and a 34-year-old associate.
According to information about the investigation, the men appear to be dividing stolen goods while the aftermath of the deadly blast was unfolding in Plaka.
The Fire Service investigation indicates that the three men caused a natural gas leak while attempting to remove copper pipes from the building.
Suspects deny responsibility for the deaths
After their questioning on Monday, the three men were transferred to prison pending trial.
As they were being escorted to court, one of the defendants was heard saying, “I apologize, but I was not responsible for the explosion.” Another also expressed regret over the deaths of the six victims.
The defendants face serious charges, including arson, causing an explosion resulting in deaths, multiple counts of homicide with possible intent, committed jointly, and causing dangerous bodily harm.
Relatives of the American tourists who were killed in the explosion have also formally joined the proceedings in support of the prosecution.
