Rapid developments are unfolding in the investigation into a major fire that broke out just before 9 p.m. on Saturday in Oreokastro, a suburb of Thessaloniki. Authorities have brought in a 76-year-old man for questioning, identifying him as the primary suspect in the blaze.
Special Investigative Teams Deployed
From the outset, investigative units from the Hellenic Fire Service were activated. A specialized team from Athens’ Directorate for the Investigation of Arson Crimes (DIAEE) was also dispatched to Thessaloniki to assist with the probe into the large-scale fire burning in Oreokastro.
Suspect’s Vehicle Linked to Ignition
According to preliminary information, the 76-year-old man was reportedly driving his vehicle in the area and may have inadvertently sparked the fire—possibly due to flying embers. He was taken in for further examination, as investigators are assessing whether he was under the influence of substances at the time of the incident. Reports suggest he was not sober, though the exact cause of the fire remains under active investigation.
The DIAEE and the Thessaloniki Investigative Team continue their work to determine precisely how the fire started and whether criminal responsibility applies.