The stationmaster responsible for the Larissa station during the fatal Tempi train collision in February, which claimed 57 lives, has filed for early release from pre-trial detention.
The move comes just weeks before his 18-month detention was scheduled to end on September 1st.
The stationmaster, who has been working in an administrative role within Larissa Prison, submitted a request to replace his detention with restrictive conditions.
The request, filed through his lawyer, Stefanos Pantzartzidis, is currently awaiting a decision from the special appellate investigator overseeing the case.
The Tempi train collision, Greece's deadliest rail accident, occurred last February when a passenger train collided head-on with a freight train. The disaster sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country, leading to investigations into the systemic failures and negligence within the Greek railway system.
The stationmaster, along with the head of the inspection department of OSE Larissa, was initially detained as part of the investigation. The inspection department head was later released under restrictive conditions.
The stationmaster's lawyer has argued that his client has taken responsibility for his role in the accident but has also pointed to other contributing factors, including broader systemic issues within the railway system.
The stationmaster's request for early release has generated significant public interest and renewed calls for accountability and justice for the victims of the tragedy.
The decision on his request is expected in the coming days and will likely be closely watched by the public and the victims' families.