Moments of anguish unfolded shortly after midnight on Monday (15/6) in the “heart” of Athens, when a fire broke out at a mobile phone store at the intersection of Menandrou and Sophocleous streets, in the Omonia area. The flames spread rapidly inside the store, which was completely destroyed, while for several hours there was fear that the fire would extend to neighboring shops housed in the same building complex.
Read: Major fire in Omonia: Shopping complex engulfed in flames (Video)
Omonia: Fire at mobile phone store
Strong Fire Department forces immediately rushed to the scene with 17 firefighters, five vehicles and a ladder truck, while additional reinforcements were later deployed. Thanks to their timely intervention, the flames were contained before spreading to the remaining stores in the building, which house clothing stores, a hair salon and storage areas with flammable materials among others.
During the operation, the owners of surrounding businesses watched with bated breath as the fire developed, fearing they would see their own properties consumed by flames.
Owner in shock
The moments were dramatic for the owner of the mobile phone store, who watched his business turn to ash within minutes. According to reports, he suffered shock and required intervention by police officers who removed him from the scene. Meanwhile, police conducted checks in surrounding buildings, many of which house short-term rental apartments, as thick smoke had spread into interior spaces. The smoke was visible even from a great distance.
Authorities cordoned off the area and did not allow residents, passersby and tourists to approach, as there were reports of gas cylinders in the complex that was engulfed in flames. The area remained closed until the early morning hours, while firefighters continued operations for complete fire suppression and checking for possible rekindling. The causes of the fire remain unknown at this time and are under investigation.
