Fire at cookie factory - 4 dead, one still missing

The fire that broke out in the early hours of Monday (26/1) at the premises of the "Violanta" biscuit factory in Trikala had a tragic outcome.

The powerful explosion that occurred at the factory caused its complete destruction, while, according to information from ERT, there are also human victims, as four bodies have been found. As previously reported, five female workers were missing from the fire at the factory. At this time, searches are continuing for one woman.

7 people in hospital, one of them a firefighter

The Fire Department is actively participating in the battle against the resurgence of the fire, with 40 firefighters and 15 vehicles operating at the scene, while six workers and one firefighter were transferred to Trikala Hospital with respiratory problems.

Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis stressed in a statement on SKAI television that “they are in good health,” without commenting on the issue of the missing persons, which, he said, “belongs to the competence of the Greek Police and the Fire Department.”

The company’s statement on the fire

“Today, a serious incident occurred at our factory premises, during the night shift, from a cause that is currently unknown. The Fire Department and the competent authorities are on the scene and are working. There are 5 missing workers and every effort is being made by the Fire Department and the competent authorities to locate them. Right now, all we are concerned about is our people. We stand by them and their families and do everything possible to support them. At the same time, we are fully cooperating with the competent authorities and providing all available assistance.”

The fire

The initial alarm was raised at the Fire Department at dawn, shortly before 4:00. As reported by the Fire Department, the fire broke out in a wing of the factory where 13 people were inside.

According to information from the Fire Department, a strong explosion preceded it and all services, including the Emergency Medical Services (EMAK), are at the scene. In addition, the Emergency Medical Services (EMAK) from Lamia has also been dispatched, while the Hellenic Emergency Medical Services (DIE) has been ordered to proceed. Furthermore, according to the same information, part of the business has collapsed.

The firefighting effort continues with the forces having been reinforced and 40 firefighters with 13 vehicles are operating, while construction machinery and water-carrying local government vehicles are providing assistance.