A wave of fear gripped central Athens on Tuesday as an 89-year-old man unleashed a shocking spree of gunfire, targeting two government buildings and leaving at least four people injured. The brazen attacks unfolded with chilling speed, plunging the heart of the Greek capital into chaos.
The first incident occurred at a social security office, where the suspect allegedly walked inside and opened fire, wounding an employee. As police rushed to the scene to assist the victim, the gunman made a swift escape, disappearing into the bustling city streets.
Surveillance footage captured a disturbing image: a man, seemingly unfazed, casually crossing a street while openly carrying a short-barrelled shotgun. The composure displayed amidst the unfolding violence sent a shiver through those who viewed the footage.
The same suspect is believed to have continued his rampage at a nearby courthouse, unleashing another volley of shots on the ground floor. Paramedics swiftly transported at least three individuals from the courthouse to waiting ambulances, their faces etched with shock and pain.
Three female court employees sustained minor injuries from ricocheting shotgun pellets, while a fourth woman was hospitalized, reportedly suffering from the emotional trauma of the ordeal. The scene inside the courthouse was one of frantic activity as authorities secured the area.
According to Alexandros Varveris, head of the National Social Security Fund, the gunman had specifically ascended to the fourth floor of their offices. He warned one employee to take cover before firing upon another, striking them in the leg. Remarkably, the shooter didn’t appear to have a specific target in mind.
Eyewitnesses described the gunman as wearing a trench coat, initially concealing his weapon. This detail added a layer of calculated intent to the already unsettling events. The motive behind the shootings remains shrouded in mystery.
Following the courthouse shooting, the suspect reportedly left behind envelopes containing documents outlining his reasons for the attacks. These documents are now central to the ongoing investigation, offering a potential glimpse into the mind of the aging gunman.
Authorities apprehended the suspect near the city of Patra, approximately 210 kilometers west of Athens, bringing an end to the manhunt. The investigation continues, seeking to unravel the full story behind this disturbing act of violence and the motivations that fueled it.
