Newsflash from Monday, 27 October 2025:
What began as a joyful community celebration in Elos, Kissamos, turned into a scene of horror on Sunday evening, October 26, when a 52-year-old man was fatally shot at close range during the annual Chestnut Festival.
According to reports from Creta24, the victim — a local livestock farmer — was shot multiple times at point-blank range while standing near the festival’s main stage. The alleged shooter, believed to be a relative of the victim, fled the scene immediately after the attack.
Police and emergency responders rushed to the area as panic spread among festivalgoers. Paramedics from EKAV attempted to revive the man, but he was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to the hospital.
During the on-site investigation, authorities recovered a used shell casing and one unused cartridge, which are now being examined as part of the ongoing homicide investigation. The suspect has been identified but remains at large, prompting a massive police manhunt across the region.
Residents of the small Cretan village remain in shock. The Chestnut Festival, typically a highlight of the autumn season in Kissamos, was abruptly halted as forensic teams cordoned off the area.
Local officials have expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing the need for calm as law enforcement continues its search for the perpetrator.
This shocking incident has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a day of celebration, leaving the community mourning the loss of one of its own.
