Two American tourists were injured during a knifing incident near the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, on Tuesday morning. Authorities believe the assault was random, occurring close to one of the nation’s most renowned tourist spots.
The victims, identified by police as a Greek-American couple aged 53 and 48, were strolling along a pedestrian street near the entrance to the Acropolis museum when they were attacked shortly after 8 a.m. local time, according to reports.
Police stated that the man sustained serious injuries needing a tourniquet and was subsequently transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The woman experienced minor leg injuries, but thankfully, neither of their injuries was considered life-threatening.
Officers detained a 60-year-old Greek man at the scene, who is set to face prosecutors on the same day regarding formal charges. Authorities have yet to ascertain the motive behind the stabbings, though the suspect seems to have mental health issues.
Greek media reported that the attacker had been waving a knife and threatening people prior to the incident, prompting a bystander to alert law enforcement.
The attack occurred just shortly after the Acropolis opened for visitors that day. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, overlooking Athens, features the Parthenon and other ancient ruins, drawing millions of tourists annually and standing as one of Greece’s top attractions.
Early morning visits to the historic site are common, especially during summer, when individuals often try to avoid the sweltering midday temperatures.
Greece is currently facing its first major heatwave of the year, with temperatures rising to around 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Athens and likely higher in other regions.
Despite the violence, local authorities opted not to close the Acropolis or the adjacent museum, allowing them to remain open as per usual throughout the day.
Officials have not released the identity of the victims or detailed the charges against the suspect. Additionally, Fox News Digital has reached out to the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Athens to confirm the victims’ nationality and whether consular help is being offered.
