ATHENS, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Two firefighters were killed and another injured while battling a fire at an abandoned building in Zefyri, northwest of Athens, on Saturday, Greece's public broadcaster ERT reported.
The two firefighters, aged 23 and 44, were trapped inside the burning building and later died in hospital despite medical efforts. A third firefighter, aged 43, was taken to hospital with injuries but is out of danger.
The fire broke out around noon on Katsantoni Street. About 20 firefighters and special rescue personnel were deployed to tackle the blaze.
Investigators are examining whether the two firefighters died after falling down a staircase or from inhaling toxic fumes after becoming disoriented in the basement. Preliminary reports suggest their breathing apparatus may have run out of air.
An investigation into the incident is underway. ■