Afghanistan, Sept. 27 -- A powerful explosion and the collapse of a residential building in central Athens killed at least six people Friday evening, including four American tourists and two Greek residents, according to Greek authorities. Investigators believe the blast was likely caused by a gas leak in the building's utility system.
The explosion occurred in the historic Plaka district, one of Athens' busiest tourist neighborhoods, just steps from the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The area is filled with hotels, restaurants and short-term rental apartments that attract thousands of visitors every day.
Greek firefighters said the blast destroyed a two-story residential building and triggered a large emergency response invol...