New details have emerged following the catastrophic explosion at the Violanta biscuit factory in Trikala, where five women lost their lives. According to investigators, the victims were found under the rubble of the collapsed roof of the production department.
Authorities say the death toll could have been even higher, as many of the 13 night shift workers survived because they were on break outside the building or near exits at the time of the explosion. There were also fewer employees than usual that night, due to the annual “Vasilopita” (New Year’s cake) cutting ceremony that had taken place just hours earlier.
In a shocking detail, Greek television Star published the last photo of three of the victims, where they are seen smiling and hugging each other during the celebration, unaware that a few hours later they would lose their lives during their work shift.
Residents of Trikala and relatives of the victims say that many mothers with young children preferred the night shift, to be near their children during the day. “They chose to work at night so they could be home with their children during the day,” said an acquaintance.
Possible cause: gas leak
EMAK rescue teams worked for hours among the rubble to extract the bodies. The investigation has been taken over by the Directorate of Fire and Crime (DAEE), which in its preliminary findings suspects a gas leak from industrial furnaces. Experts are also investigating the possibility of a “dust explosion” from raw materials such as flour or fine sugar. Authorities have ruled out sabotage.
The tragic event comes at a time of extraordinary growth for Violanta. Founded in 2003, it has transformed from a local bakery into an international exporter, with annual sales approaching 45 million euros.
