4 Americans among 6 dead after explosion collapses building in Athens
Four Americans were among the six people killed in Athens, Greece after an explosion collapsed a two-story building, according to U.S. officials.
The blast took place Friday morning in Plaka, a popular tourist neighborhood near the ancient Acropolis, and sent debris throughout the block.
The U.S. State Department on Saturday confirmed the death of the four Americans as the result of a gas explosion.
Earlier Saturday, a spokesperson for the Hellenic Fire Department told ABC News that the bodies of six people who were initially missing after the blast had been recovered. Their identities weren't immediately revealed.
The exact cause of the explosion was under investigation, local officials said earlier.
U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle posted a statement on X Saturday that four U.S. citizens were among the dead.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the families and the loved ones of those killed and injured in this horrific incident. Our hearts are with them during this difficult time. I extend my deepest appreciation to the Greek first responders who worked tirelessly at the scene," she said adding that U.S. embassy is working with the families.
Two people in an adjacent building were injured, according to Mayor Haris Doukas and fire officials.
