Athens, May 16 – A 17-year-old girl, critically injured after a joint suicide attempt with another teenager in Athens, has succumbed to her injuries. The KAT General Hospital announced her death late on Thursday. This tragic event follows the death of the other teenager at the scene on Tuesday.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when the two girls climbed to the rooftop of a six-floor apartment building in the Ilioupoli suburb, where one of them resided. They then jumped. One of the teenagers died immediately, while the second was rushed to Asklepieion Hospital in Voula, where she was intubated. Due to the severity of her injuries, she was subsequently transferred to KAT Hospital for specialized trauma care.
Police investigations revealed that the girls had locked the rooftop door behind them, a detail suggesting a deliberate attempt to prevent any intervention.
Suicide Note Reveals Struggles
A handwritten note, discovered inside the backpack of the girl who died at the scene, is now a crucial part of the ongoing police investigation. Reports indicate that the note detailed years of depression, overwhelming anxiety concerning Greece’s nationwide university entrance exams, known as the Panhellenic exams, and profound fears about her future.
In the note, she reportedly addressed her parents, disclosing a three-year battle with depression. She also expressed significant apprehension about her performance in the Panhellenic exams, fearing that failure would severely limit her career prospects and lead to financial insecurity. The note concluded with the teenager stating that she no longer found joy in life and harbored deep pessimism about her future.
Wider Concerns for Greek Youngsters
This incident highlights the immense pressure faced by Greek youngsters, particularly concerning the highly competitive Panhellenic university entrance exams. These exams are a significant determinant of future academic and career opportunities in Greece, often leading to considerable stress and anxiety among students.
The tragic deaths have sparked renewed discussions about mental health support for adolescents and the societal pressures associated with academic performance in Greece. Authorities and educational institutions are urged to address these underlying issues to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Police Investigation Continues
The police investigation is ongoing, focusing on the circumstances surrounding the joint suicide jump and the content of the suicide note. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The identities of the teenagers have not been publicly released out of respect for their families.
The community in Athens is grappling with the shock and sorrow of this event, prompting calls for increased awareness and resources for mental health support among young people.
Source: https://greekreporter.com/2026/05/15/second-teenager-dies-following-joint-suicide-jump-athens/
