A man under 25 surrendered to police on Tuesday morning in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 37-year-old Bulgarian man outside a nightclub in Peristeri, a suburb of Athens.

Authorities say the suspect, already known to police and employed as security staff at local venues, was identified early in the investigation through witness statements and security camera footage near the scene. The man voluntarily came forward, ending a manhunt that began the night of the incident.

Revenge Motive Suspected

Police sources indicate the stabbing was likely an act of revenge. Around two weeks prior, the suspect was reportedly beaten in a separate altercation by the victim and others in the nearby Bournezi area. According to reports, the suspect belonged to a well-known security group within Athens’ nightlife scene and worked at another nightclub in Peristeri.

The Night of the Attack

The stabbing occurred shortly after 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 19. Witnesses said a man approached the victim and asked him to step outside. The victim initially refused but eventually followed. Outside the club, the suspect allegedly stabbed the 37-year-old in the abdomen. Bleeding heavily, the victim returned inside seeking help before collapsing in front of onlookers.

Emergency services transported him to the General State Hospital of Nikaia, where he later died from his injuries. Police collected statements from the victim’s companion and witnesses, as well as security footage, which helped identify the suspect.

The 37-year-old had a criminal history, including previous convictions, and was reportedly part of a known Albanian criminal group, according to local authorities.