Athens Shooting: 89-Year-Old Suspect Still Evading Authorities

A recent shooting in the heart of Athens has left several individuals injured, leading authorities on a search for a suspect identified as an elderly man. The incident began when the assailant opened fire in two distinct locations on Tuesday, prompting a significant law enforcement response across the area.

Reports indicate the suspect first targeted a social security office, where he used a shotgun, injuring one employee. Emergency services quickly arrived to provide medical assistance before taking the victim to a hospital for treatment. The assailant managed to escape prior to being apprehended by law enforcement.

Following the initial shooting, it was confirmed that the same man was responsible for a second shooting incident at a courthouse located in a different area of central Athens. This attack resulted in multiple injuries, with footage showing emergency personnel transporting victims to ambulances immediately outside the courthouse.

The police have since recovered the firearm believed to have been used during these incidents and initiated a wide-scale manhunt. Greek media sources suggest that the suspect is an 89-year-old man, although official details about his identity have not been made available to the public.

Investigators continue to explore the motive behind these shootings. There are indications that the suspect may have attempted to throw documents at the courthouse after the shooting, possibly as an explanation for his actions, though this remains unverified.

According to officials from the national social security authority, EFKA, the assailant entered the office, ascended to an upper floor, and opened fire after advising one employee to step aside. Another victim was reportedly shot in the leg during this violent episode.

Given that gun violence is rare in Greece, where gun ownership is highly regulated, this incident has raised alarm regarding public safety, particularly given the unusual profile of the suspect.

Law enforcement operations are ongoing as efforts continue to locate and apprehend the shooter. Authorities have urged citizens to stay vigilant and report any pertinent information to aid in the investigation.