What began as a joyful village festival in Elos, Kissamos, celebrating Crete’s autumn harvest and chestnut tradition, ended in horror on Sunday evening when a 51-year-old man was fatally shot in front of dozens of festival-goers.
The shooting occurred shortly after 6 p.m., while the event’s music and dancing were in full swing in the village square. According to police sources, the suspect approached the dance floor and fired two shots into the victim’s chest as he was dancing.
The victim collapsed on the ground as panic spread among those present. An ambulance rushed to the scene, transferring him first to the Kissamos Health Center and then to the Chania General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities confirmed that the alleged perpetrator, a relative of the victim, fled immediately after the shooting. Police later identified him, and an investigation is underway.
Family Ties and Deep Tensions
According to ERT and other local sources, both men had a history of disputes, and the victim had previously been involved in fights and altercations. Though details remain under investigation, early reports suggest the shooting may have stemmed from long-standing property disagreements within the family.
The shocking incident unfolded in front of families, musicians, and visitors — many of whom had gathered for one of Crete’s most anticipated rural celebrations, the Chestnut Festival of Inachorio, a three-day event honoring local produce and community life.
Community in Mourning
The Municipality of Kissamos issued an official statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and clarifying that the tragedy was in no way connected to the festival’s organization or participants.
“This year’s event once again highlighted the richness and vitality of our local tradition,” the municipality wrote. “Unfortunately, it was overshadowed by a tragic incident that marked our community. We fully trust the authorities to investigate the matter and extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.”
The message also thanked the volunteers, associations, and residents who contributed to the event’s success despite the shock and sorrow that followed.
A Village Stunned, a Festival in Silence
In Elos, grief lingers in the streets where music had been playing only moments before. Locals speak of disbelief — how a night meant to honor community and harvest could turn so dark, so suddenly.
The Kissamos Chestnut Festival has always been a symbol of togetherness, of Crete’s unshakable mountain hospitality. This year, it became a reminder of how fragile peace can be, even in places where life feels timeless.
The community now waits for answers — and justice — while the chestnuts that once roasted over festival fires cool under the weight of mourning.