A series of shooting incidents in Athens on Tuesday left five people injured, with Greek authorities launching a major manhunt for an 89-year-old suspect, according to the national broadcaster ERT.
The first attack occurred in the Petralona district shortly before 10 a.m. local time. The suspect allegedly entered a social security institution building, where he opened fire, injuring one employee in the leg. The victim was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The situation escalated when the suspect moved to the vicinity of the Magistrates' Court in central Athens. There, he entered the ground floor of a building and opened fire again, injuring four more individuals. Officials have described all injuries from both incidents as minor. The shooter abandoned the weapon, a shotgun, at the court scene before fleeing on foot.
Authorities have identified the suspect as an 89-year-old man known in the areas where the shootings took place. Media reports, citing police sources, indicate he has a history of psychiatric treatment.
In response, a large-scale police operation is currently underway across the Greek capital to locate and apprehend the individual. The incidents have heightened security concerns in the city center, though officials have not suggested any broader threat to the public.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
