In Athens, an explosion damages offices and stores; three people are injured.

Early Wednesday, an explosion in a bustling district of central Athens injured three individuals and severely damaged an office building while smashing surrounding businesses.

A 77-year-old man was taken to the hospital with burns, according to fire department officials. Two other people needed medical help due to smoke inhalation.

On the crowded Syngrou Avenue, 200 meters from the ancient Temple of Olympian Zeus, a pre-dawn explosion happened.

Firefighters used aerial ladders to search for anyone trapped inside the damaged structures. They broke into damaged stores as dawn broke to release numerous others trapped inside.
The cause of the explosion was not immediately determined.