A large-scale fire broke out on the morning of Thursday, July 9, at a metal recycling business in Aspropyrgos, Greece, injuring at least 1 person, three of whom are in critical condition.
The flames started just before 08:00 at a business selling spare parts for trucks and machinery, before spreading to a nearby plastics factory. Due to the intensity of the fire and the high thermal load, the operation to extinguish the flames was described as extremely difficult.
75 firefighters with 20 vehicles, four special vehicles and a helicopter were deployed to the scene, while authorities also expressed concern about the presence of a truck with propane cylinders inside the company's premises, which significantly increased the risk.
According to the latest information, seven people have been admitted to the "Thriasio" Hospital, where two of them are intubated and in serious condition. Three other injured people have suffered minor injuries and are expected to be discharged from the hospital during the day. Two other people went to the hospital themselves for medical assistance and left after treatment.
Meanwhile, a 42-year-old man, who is suspected to be the owner of the business, was transported by EKAB ambulance to "Attikon" Hospital. He is intubated in very serious condition and is expected to be transferred to the Burn Unit of KAT Hospital.
Images from the scene show the business almost completely destroyed, while thick clouds of smoke have covered the sky over Attica, creating a suffocating atmosphere in the area. Firefighters continue their efforts to bring the fire under control and avoid further dangers.
