A festive carnival celebration in northern Greece descended into violence over the weekend when a 23-year-old man allegedly stabbed a younger reveler three times in the leg, authorities said.
The violent altercation occurred just before 10 p.m. during the city of Edessa's annual pre-Lenten festivities.
According to local police, the suspect attacked the 21-year-old victim amid a densely packed street party.
Following the assault, the attacker attempted to flee the chaotic scene. However, he tripped and fell during his escape, sustaining a significant head injury.
Both men, whose identities have not been released by authorities, were immediately transported to Edessa General Hospital. Medical staff confirmed that their injuries are non-life-threatening.
The 23-year-old suspect currently remains hospitalized under strict police guard while receiving treatment.
Police spokesman Dimitris Georgiou confirmed the sequence of events on Sunday.
Mr. Georgiou stated that investigators are actively interviewing witnesses who were present in the festive crowd to determine the exact trigger for the bloody brawl.
"The motive for the attack remains unclear at this stage of the investigation," Mr. Georgiou said. "We are working to understand what led to this sudden escalation during what should have been a peaceful celebration."
The Edessa Police Department is spearheading a preliminary investigation and expects to formally charge the suspect once he is medically cleared.
The sudden violence cast a temporary pall over the weekend’s events, which traditionally draw thousands of visitors to the famous waterfall city for its vibrant holiday celebrations.