Teenager Dies After Police Shooting Sparks Unrest in Thessaloniki
A 16-year-old boy has died in hospital after being shot by a police officer during a dramatic chase in northern Greece. The teenager had been in critical condition for over a week following the early-morning incident on December 5 in Thessaloniki.
Incident Triggered by Unpaid Petrol
Police were pursuing the boy after he allegedly filled up his pick-up truck at a petrol station and drove off without paying a €20 bill. Officers said he attempted to ram their motorcycles during the pursuit.
Violent Protests Erupt Amid Accusations of Racism
The shooting ignited several days of often violent protests across Thessaloniki, Athens, and other cities, especially among the Roma community. Despite calls from community leaders and some family members for calm, tensions remain high.
“Everyone here is crying. It is unjust for a child to leave like this,” said Antonis Tasios, secretary of the Roma community where the boy lived. “We have great pain.”
The Roma community has condemned the shooting as racially motivated. Many Roma in Greece face ongoing discrimination and live on society’s margins. In recent years, several Roma men have been injured or killed during clashes with law enforcement.
Officer Suspended, Investigation Underway
The 34-year-old officer who fired the fatal shot has been suspended and under house arrest since last Friday. He faces charges of attempted manslaughter with possible intent and illegal use of his weapon. During a court hearing, he claimed he fired because he feared for his colleagues’ lives.
Greek Citizens’ Protection Minister Takis Theodorikakos expressed “deep sorrow” over the teen’s death and urged respect for the ongoing judicial investigation.
“This case is being investigated by the judicial system, which is the only one competent to assess the facts and judge responsibilities,” the minister tweeted. “Let us all respect that.”
