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76-Year-Old Arrested for Sparks Igniting Thessaloniki Plant Fire

7/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of igniting the Thessaloniki recycling-plant fire by sparking his vehicle’s exhaust.
Firefighters deployed 155 personnel, volunteers, 16 water-dropping planes and six helicopters to fight the blaze near Oraiokastro.
Ioannis Artopoios said about 85 % of Greece’s wildfires stem from negligence such as machinery sparks, cigarettes or barbecues.
Mayor Pandelis Tsakiris reported damage to businesses and homes and said a full assessment will follow.

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Story summary

A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of igniting the Thessaloniki recycling-plant fire by sparking his vehicle’s exhaust.
Firefighters deployed 155 personnel, volunteers, 16 water-dropping planes and six helicopters to fight the blaze near Oraiokastro.
Ioannis Artopoios said about 85 % of Greece’s wildfires stem from negligence such as machinery sparks, cigarettes or barbecues.
Mayor Pandelis Tsakiris reported damage to businesses and homes and said a full assessment will follow.