Arson attack kills mother of Greek New Democracy politician in Thessaloniki, Tsipras condemns terrorism
A coordinated gas-canister attack on New Democracy officials' homes in Thessaloniki left one woman dead and four injured on Wednesday. Vagia Nestora, 72, succumbed to severe burns, prompting condemnation from opposition leader Alexis Tsipras.
Coordinated firebombings
On Wednesday 1 July 2026, unknown perpetrators carried out coordinated arson attacks with gas canisters on the homes of three centre-right New Democracy (ND) figures in Thessaloniki. The targets were Zisis Ioakeimovits, president of ND's Thessaloniki governing committee; former MP Savvas Anastasiadis; and politician Afroditi Nestora. The blasts occurred between 04:18 and 04:35 at the apartment buildings, using improvised incendiary devices known as "gazakia".
Victim dies in hospital
Vagia Nestora, 72-year-old mother of Afroditi Nestora, was rushed to Hippokrateion Hospital at 05:53 in very severe condition. She had sustained extensive burns covering 80% of her body and multi-organ failure from smoke inhalation. Despite intensive care, she died at 18:50 the same day.
Other injured and medical update
Afroditi Nestora herself was admitted to the surgical clinic with first and second degree burns on her upper and lower limbs and inhalational injury; her condition is stable. Her father Panagiotis Nestoras was hospitalized with moderate respiratory issues and is expected to be discharged soon. Two other residents of the building received treatment for smoke inhalation and will be released shortly, according to hospital statements.
Tsipras condemns 'terrorist attack'
Alexis Tsipras, president of the left-wing Greek Left Alliance and former prime minister, issued a statement condemning the arson and expressing condolences.
The tragic loss of a human life from a criminal arson attack shocks us all.... Terrorism has no place in a democracy. Human life is the supreme value, and defending it is our common duty.
Afroditi Nestora had earlier described the incident as an "inhuman, blind terrorist attack" and said she would continue to stand for free thought.
Investigation under way
The Anti-Terrorism Service (DAEEB) is leading the investigation, gathering witness statements and security camera footage. Authorities estimate more than two people were involved in the attacks, which they believe were carried out in a 17-minute window.
- Coordinated arson attacks with gas canisters begin at homes of three ND officials in Thessaloniki.
- Vagia Nestora admitted to Hippokrateion Hospital in very severe condition with 80% burns.
- Vagia Nestora dies in intensive care from burns and multi-organ failure.
