Relatives and friends gathered to bid farewell to Vasilis Mantzouranis, who lost his life in a tragic accident last Saturday night in the center of Thessaloniki.
The 53-year-old musician, well-known as a member of the band “Dytikes Synikies” (Western Suburbs), was laid to rest at the Church of Saint Paraskevi in the Menemeni district.
The Farewell
From early in the day, mourners arrived at the church holding white flowers, sharing kind words and memories of Vasilis Mantzouranis. His family and two children, who were in the car during the fatal accident, were inconsolable figures of grief.
Words from the Mayor
“The western suburbs mourn today,” stated Lazaros Kyrizoglou, Mayor of Ampelokipoi-Menemeni, highlighting Mantzouranis’ strong ties to the local community. He extended heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the musician.
The body of Vasilis Mantzouranis arrived at the church at 1:00 PM, and the funeral service commenced at 1:30 PM.
Details of the Accident
According to reports, the accident occurred at approximately 11:30 PM on Saturday at the intersection of Egnatia and Lagada streets. The car driven by Mantzouranis collided side-on with another vehicle under unclear circumstances.
The 53-year-old musician lost his life in the crash. Also in the car were five minors, all aged 16, including his two children. The injured passengers were transported to Papageorgiou and G. Gennimatas Hospitals by EKAV ambulances, while the fire department assisted in rescuing those trapped.
It is reported that Mantzouranis had gone to the city center that evening to pick up his two children and three of their friends to take them home. On their return to western Thessaloniki, the fatal collision occurred.
The driver of the other vehicle sustained minor injuries.