Athens hunts 89-year-old gunman after shootings at social security office and courthouse
Athens hunts 89-year-old gunman after shootings at social security office and courthouse
Police are pursuing an 89-year-old suspect who wounded several people in central Athens after attacks at a social security office and a courthouse.
On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, central Athens was shaken as authorities said an 89-year-old man opened fire with a shotgun at a social security office and then at a courthouse, wounding multiple people. Police launched a nationwide manhunt for the suspect, who was described in initial reports as walking calmly across the street with the weapon in his hand.
Investigators said the first shot was fired at the social security office in the heart of the city, injuring an employee. A short time later, the gunman fired again at the nearby courthouse, injuring additional people before disappearing into the streets. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, transporting the wounded to hospital for treatment.
The motive behind the attack remained unclear in the early hours, and no group claimed responsibility. Greek police said they were pursuing several leads as officers cordon off the center of Athens and step up patrols around government buildings.
Analysts noted the incident raises questions about public safety around essential services. Officials urged residents to avoid the area as investigators collected evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.
Neighbourhood witnesses described hearing shots and seeing a solitary figure with a shotgun. The operation is ongoing, with authorities coordinating with prosecutors to determine whether this was an isolated act or part of something larger.
Calls grew for a swift update from authorities as the city awaited more information about the suspect and confirmed injuries.
