In the early hours of January 1, 2025, a tragic incident in the center of Serres, Greece, left a 34-year-old Greek man dead following a violent altercation. Authorities have arrested two suspects and issued warrants for two others in connection with the murder, which has shocked the local community.
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| Liridon Gushali, also known as Liridon Hoxha and in the background a greek police car |
The Incident
The altercation occurred shortly after 5 a.m. on the pedestrian street in Serres. A dispute between the victim and four suspects escalated into a deadly confrontation. During the conflict, the victim was stabbed twice, suffering fatal wounds to his left side, including his ribs and hip area. Despite being transported to the Serres hospital, the victim succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Police investigating the scene also recovered six blank shell casings from a starter pistol, suggesting an additional escalation during the altercation.
The Suspects
The case has identified four male suspects, aged 30, 28, 27, and 29. Among them is a 29-year-old Albanian national from Durrës, identified as Liridon Gushali, also known as Liridon Hoxha. Both he and the 27-year-old suspect are currently in custody, while the other two remain at large.
Timeline of Events
The victim had attempted to enter a nightclub with two friends earlier in the evening but was denied entry by one of the suspects, potentially working as a bouncer. This initial refusal led to a verbal altercation, after which the victim and his companions left the scene.
Approximately an hour later, it is believed that the groups either agreed to meet or coincidentally encountered each other near the city’s main pedestrian area. The confrontation quickly turned violent, with one suspect allegedly wielding a military-style knife to deliver the fatal blows. Additionally, another suspect fired blank rounds into the air during the altercation, further intensifying the scene.
Victim's Background
The deceased was a father of two, with his wife expecting their third child. Residing in Lefkona, he was described by neighbors as a peaceful family man. Preliminary reports suggest the victim may have been under the influence of alcohol during the initial incident, though investigations continue to determine whether the suspects were nightclub employees or patrons.
Community Reaction
The murder has left the local community in shock, particularly given the victim’s reputation as a responsible family man. Authorities are under significant pressure to bring all suspects to justice and provide answers about the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation
Greek police continue their search for the remaining suspects and are examining whether additional factors, such as prior relationships or professional affiliations, may have played a role in the incident.
This case underscores the devastating consequences of escalating conflicts and highlights the urgent need for swift justice in such tragic situations.