A 59-year-old worker, identified as Dimitrou Nikou and believed to be Romanian, died after suffering burns over 90% of his body in a fire at a truck suspension repair shop in Aspropyrgos’ industrial district of Mavri Ora. He died after four days in the hospital. Authorities have not determined the conditions under which he worked. One possibility under investigation is that he lived inside the workshop while also serving as a guard.
A second Romanian worker, 44, remains in critical condition.
The July 9 blaze spread quickly to neighboring businesses, highlighting concerns about safety in the densely packed industrial area. Labor representatives say facilities are crowded together, escape routes are lacking, roads are too narrow for fire engines, and new businesses continue to appear.
Investigators believe a propane or acetylene leak may have ignited when a worker attempted to light a cigarette. The fire is thought to have reached a nearby propane tanker, causing a second powerful explosion.
Labor groups plan demonstrations over the death and injuries, citing safety failures.
