Gunfire Erupts in Central Athens
An elderly gunman created chaos in the heart of Athens on Tuesday by opening fire at two separate locations, resulting in multiple injuries. The suspect, reportedly an 89-year-old man, targeted a social security office and subsequently a courthouse, prompting a large-scale police operation aimed at capturing the assailant.
Initial Attack at Social Security Office
The violent spree began at a social security office in the bustling Kerameikos area. Witnesses reported that the gunman, concealing a shotgun beneath a trench coat, ascended to the fourth floor where he unexpectedly opened fire. He initially instructed an employee to duck before shooting another individual in the leg. The employee’s quick-thinking colleagues, along with responding officers, applied a tourniquet before the victim was transported to a hospital.
Eyewitness Accounts
According to Alexandros Varveris, head of the National Social Security Fund (EFKA), the gunman did not appear to have a specific target. “He went in, went up to the fourth floor, raised his shotgun, told an employee to duck and hit another one,” Varveris stated. The unsettling incident left the office in disarray, as employees struggled to comprehend the motive behind the attack.
Second Shooting at Athens Courthouse
After the initial attack, the gunman moved to a courthouse in another part of central Athens, where he continued his rampage by firing shots on the ground floor. The ensuing panic led to several people being wounded. Police later recovered the shotgun used in the attack, but the suspect managed to evade capture.
Motives and Mystery
While the motive behind the shootings remains unclear, state broadcaster ERT reported that the suspect had scattered documents across the courthouse floor, claiming these papers justified his actions. This cryptic behavior has left investigators puzzled, as they attempt to piece together the suspect’s intentions.
Response and Ongoing Investigation
Footage from the scene showed emergency services swiftly responding, with ambulances transporting at least three injured individuals from the courthouse. Authorities have intensified efforts to locate the suspect, whose age and actions have added a unique complexity to the case.
Gun Violence in Greece
Gun-related incidents are uncommon in Greece, a nation where firearm ownership is permitted but strictly regulated. The rarity of such events has heightened the public’s concern, prompting discussions on security measures in public institutions.
Community Reactions
The Athens community has reacted with shock and disbelief to the violent events. Many are questioning the security protocols in place at public offices and courthouses, while others express sympathy for the victims and their families. As the investigation continues, the public remains on edge, awaiting further developments.