The large wildfire that recently broke out in Feneos, Corinth, was likely caused by construction activity in the area, according to an investigation by the Fire Service’s Arson Investigation Unit.

Two workers were carrying out outdoor tasks related to the construction of temporary buildings when the fire started. One of them, a 34-year-old man, admitted during questioning that he had been using an electric cutting tool (grinder) to cut metal bars during extreme heat. He said that after cutting eight pieces of metal, he noticed sparks had caused a fire to break out near a fence.

The second worker, a 33-year-old from Kazakhstan, said he had taken a break nearby and heard the first man shouting about the fire. He rushed outside and saw flames had already appeared at the site.

Initially, the two men were arrested and charged with causing a fire due to negligence. However, the prosecutor has since upgraded the charges to suspected arson with potential intent, which is a felony. They are expected to appear before an investigating judge today, Thursday.

Authorities confirmed that a recent electronic music festival in the area had no connection to the fire, as the event had ended on July 7, well before the incident occurred.