Greek police are investigating the death of an 82-year-old man after a brawl over a sunlounger at a beach on the Athenian riviera.

The man had arrived at the popular bathing spot of Vouliagmeni before 10am on Sunday hoping to secure a sunbed, but he soon began arguing with a fellow bather – described by authorities as a “76-year-old man unknown to him” – when it became clear loungers were in short supply.

The row quickly degenerated into a scuffle as others reportedly joined in. The victim, who was with his wife, is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest during the fight.

“It seems that people who were with [the assailant] also participated,” ERT, the country’s state broadcaster, reported. “The 82-year-old was seriously injured, and needed to be transferred by ambulance to Asklepieion hospital in Voula.

“Despite the efforts of doctors, at about 11am the elderly man succumbed to his wounds.” A post-mortem was immediately ordered.

Police arrested the 76-year-old and, initially, a 21-year-old woman who was with him. The beach resort’s manager was also detained for questioning.

“The incident is under investigation,” said a source, describing the fight as unprecedented. “In Greece disagreement is expressed vocally, with a lot of screaming and shouting, not in fistfights like this – especially between two elderly men. I think that’s why it is so shocking.”

Like other parts of Europe, Greece is undergoing a severe cost of living crisis that has heightened tensions and put strain on social relations. An increase in domestic violence and other disputes has been partly blamed on the pressures of everyday life.

In recent years, there has been growing anger over private rental outfits hogging prime coastal areas with exorbitantly priced sunloungers in Greece, where the sea has an important place in national identity.

Authorities said “all those” involved in the incident would appear before a magistrate.