Investigators are examining video footage that may prove critical to determining the cause of the devastating wildfire that erupted near Asomatos in southern Rethymno and spread across the wider Preveli palm forest area.
According to the footage, a man dressed in dark clothing is seen moving through farmland above the main road. He initially appears to wander around the area before heading toward a section of dense vegetation and then walking away.
Authorities say the same individual is later seen returning to the location, which investigators are treating as a possible point where the fire originated.
First Smoke Captured on Video
Investigators are paying particular attention to the moment when the first signs of smoke become visible in the footage. At that point, the individual appears to leave the area quickly in the opposite direction, a sequence of events that authorities are closely analyzing.
Sources from the Hellenic Fire Service and the Hellenic Police say identifying the individual is now a top priority. They believe he will likely be asked to explain his presence and movements in the area.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are also gathering additional evidence, including footage from nearby security cameras, in an effort to establish the circumstances under which the wildfire began.
According to the investigation, the video records the individual’s movements at approximately 1 p.m. on the day the fire broke out.
Residents noticed smoke shortly afterward, but strong winds fueled the rapid spread of the blaze, allowing it to grow quickly into a major wildfire.
