A fire broke out on Sunday afternoon (June 28) in a two-storey residential building at the intersection of Aristeidou and Agion Panton streets in Kallithea, Athens.

According to initial reports, the blaze started on the building’s first floor while an elderly couple was inside the home. The Fire Service announced that the fire was brought fully under control at around 7 p.m.

A neighbor described the dramatic rescue, saying that “a woman jumped into a man’s arms, while an elderly man escaped through the building’s rear exit via the garage door. He managed to get out safely. The woman was in good condition and was taken to the Red Cross Hospital.”

The 75-year-old woman was transported to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation, while the 80-year-old man sustained a leg injury. Two firefighters also suffered burns while battling the blaze and were taken to the 251 General Air Force Hospital for treatment.

“The couple had been lying down for an afternoon nap,” the neighbor said. “The woman noticed the fire, rushed onto the balcony, and then jumped. A delivery driver caught her.” According to the witness, the delivery driver was injured during the rescue and was also taken to hospital.

“He is a hero,” the neighbor added. “I’m so grateful to the young man who saved that woman’s life.”

Son breaks down in tears

The elderly couple’s son arrived at the scene carrying the family’s small dog and broke down in tears. A bystander embraced him, reassuring him that “everything is okay,” while neighbors informed him that both of his parents had been taken to hospital.

Emergency response

Twenty-four firefighters, assisted by seven fire engines and a specialized hydraulic platform vehicle, responded to the incident. Police officers and ambulances from Greece’s National Emergency Aid Center (EKAB) were also deployed.

According to reports, two people suffered smoke inhalation injuries and were transported by ambulance to the Red Cross Hospital and Sotiria Hospital.

Traffic was temporarily suspended on Aristeidou Street from its intersection with Charokopou Street, on Agion Panton Street from Thiseos Avenue, and on Grypari Street from Menelaou Street as emergency crews worked at the scene.