Newsroom
Greek fire authorities have concluded that a prolonged propane gas leak was the primary cause of the fatal explosion at the “Violanta” food production facility in the Trikala regional unit, an incident that claimed the lives of five female workers.
According to an official briefing by the Fire Service, the explosion occurred during the early hours of January 26, 2026, while the factory was operating continuously, as usual. Emergency services were alerted shortly before 4:00 a.m., and firefighting units arrived within minutes to confront a rapidly escalating situation.
A major emergency response was launched, involving dozens of firefighters, multiple fire engines and support vehicles, specialized disaster-response teams from Larissa and Lamia, and aerial monitoring using drones. Police forces, ambulances, and municipal water tankers also assisted in the operation.
At the time of the blast, 13 employees were on duty. Eight workers managed to escape the building, with several requiring hospital treatment. Despite immediate rescue efforts, five employees were reported missing. Their remains were recovered over the course of the same day and the following morning, underscoring the severity of the explosion and fire.
From the outset, the investigation proceeded under the supervision of the Trikala Public Prosecutor. Fire Service investigators were joined by explosives experts from the Hellenic Police, disaster-response units, and independent technical specialists. In addition, the Fire Corps’ Arson Crimes Directorate was deployed to conduct a comprehensive forensic examination of the site.
Investigators carried out detailed inspections, mapped the scene, collected material evidence, analyzed installations, and obtained witness testimony. Particular attention was paid to the facility’s fuel infrastructure.
The inquiry identified two above-ground propane tanks, with capacities of 5,000 and 9,000 liters, located roughly 30 meters from the explosion point. Signs of recent use were observed on the smaller tank. These tanks were connected to the factory’s ovens through underground pipelines running beneath paved surfaces and into the building.
Advanced testing revealed that propane had been leaking into the ground. Subsequent excavation uncovered a significant underground gas accumulation at a depth of about 60 centimeters. Authorities believe the leak had been active for several months, allowing gas to migrate through the soil and collect in a confined underground area.
According to the Fire Service’s findings, the trapped propane was eventually ignited by electrical or mechanical equipment, triggering the powerful explosion that devastated the facility.
In the wake of the investigation, three Greek nationals were arrested on January 27, 2026. They face charges including negligent homicide, multiple counts of serious bodily injury, arson, and causing an explosion. All three were brought before the Trikala prosecutor.
The preliminary investigation remains ongoing, and a final technical report has yet to be completed. Meanwhile, the local community continues to mourn the loss of the five women, calling for accountability and justice for those who lost their lives while at work.
