A knife attack near Athens' Acropolis on Tuesday morning left two Greek-American tourists injured before police quickly arrested the suspected attacker, authorities said.
The incident occurred shortly after 8:00 a.m. near the Acropolis Museum, one of Greece's most visited tourist destinations. According to police, the victims—a man and a woman visiting from the United States—were attacked without any apparent connection to the suspect.
Two Tourists Hospitalized
Authorities said the female victim sustained a minor leg injury, while the male victim suffered a more serious wound to his arm. Both were transported by ambulance to Athens' Red Cross General Hospital for medical treatment.
Suspect Taken Into Custody
Police officers responding to the scene arrested the alleged attacker within minutes. According to the Hellenic Police, the suspect is a 60-year-old Greek man who is believed to have a history of mental health issues.
Witnesses told investigators that the man had reportedly been threatening passersby with a knife before carrying out the attack, prompting an immediate police response.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and the suspect's motive. Initial findings indicate that the victims were randomly targeted, with no prior relationship to the attacker.
Despite the incident, the Acropolis archaeological site and the Acropolis Museum remained open, and visitor access continued under enhanced police presence.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities gather witness statements and examine all available evidence.