Xylokastro: The tragic story of two fire victims – They went to save a friend in danger

Tragic details have emerged regarding the two men, aged 35 and 40, who lost their lives when they were surrounded by a fire near the village of Elliniko in Xylokastro.

This occurred on Sunday night as they attempted to reach the barn of a friend in danger.

According to the deputy governor of Corinth, Anastasios Giolis, one of the men was a father of three, while the other was expecting his third child soon.

“They were exceptional individuals who, out of love for their fellow villagers, rushed to help,” added Mr. Giolis, who hails from the same village as the two unfortunate men.

As shown in footage aired by SKAI, the two men tried to approach the area of their friend’s barn near Elliniko village on their motorbikes. However, it seems the fire encircled them, leading to their tragic deaths. Their charred bodies were discovered early this morning by OPKE police officers.

Earlier, Mr. Giolis explained that the two men were “not registered volunteers; they were villagers who did not heed the 112 emergency alerts and went to assist.”

According to reports, the 35- and 40-year-old men took their motorbikes on Sunday night and headed to help their friend in the Ano Pitsa area of Corinth. Despite encountering firefighters who urged them to turn back due to the ongoing blaze, the men continued on their path, leading to this tragic outcome.

Scattered Active Fires

The latest update from the fire department indicates there is no single fire front, but firefighters are tackling numerous active hotspots.

Since the morning, 350 firefighters, 14 forest commando teams, and 110 vehicles, along with volunteers and Civil Protection groups, have been operating in the broader area. Additional support includes water tankers and construction equipment from the Peloponnese Region, the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, forest services, and the Greek police.

Meanwhile, 18 aircraft – 7 planes and 11 helicopters, two of which are used for coordination – are conducting aerial water drops.

Reports indicate damage in the area of Elliniko, Xylokastro, but a complete assessment will be made after the fire is fully extinguished.

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