Athens: 89-year-old suspect in two shootings actively sought

Athens is on edge as authorities intensify their search for an 89-year-old man suspected of carrying out two separate shootings in public spaces within the capital. The incidents, which occurred on April 28, 2026, left four individuals with minor leg injuries, thankfully none in life-threatening condition.

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Four people were slightly injured in the legs.

The alleged perpetrator, described as having psychological troubles, reportedly unleashed gunfire in a social security office before moving on to a courthouse in central Athens. It was at the courthouse that he allegedly injured three employees before abandoning his hunting rifle and fleeing the scene. Greek media reports indicate that letters found at the courthouse revealed the suspect's grievances over his inability to collect his pension, suggesting a possible motive rooted in financial distress.

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The elderly man, described as suffering from psychological disorders, abandoned his weapon, a hunting rifle, while fleeing the courthouse in central Athens, where he had just lightly injured three people in the legs.

While the immediate threat to the injured appears minimal, the shootings have understandably caused alarm. The suspect's age and alleged mental health struggles add a layer of complexity to the investigation. This event, while seemingly isolated, highlights the potential for desperate individuals to resort to violence when facing severe personal crises. The Greek police are continuing their efforts to apprehend the suspect, who was last seen on surveillance footage leaving the social security office calmly on foot.

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All victims are out of danger.