Deadly clashes as Greek lawmakers hold austerity vote

Anti-austerity protests in Greece turned deadly Thursday, as a demonstrator died of injuries sustained as fighting broke out among police, rioters and other demonstrators.

The news came as tens of thousands of Greek protesters rallied in the streets of Athens for a second day, as lawmakers prepare to vote on a new round of tough budget-cutting measures aimed at bringing down the national debt.

After a peaceful start, violent clashes broke out Thursday afternoon between rioters and the police, and between the rioters -- described as anarchists by reporters at the scene -- and some union demonstrators.

Tear gas was fired into the crowd, while rocks and fire bombs were thrown.

The protester killed was a member of the PAME workers' union, lawmaker Makis Voridis told parliament. Hospital officials told CNN he was a 53-year-old man who was injured during the violence.

Despite demonstrations nationwide Wednesday, lawmakers approved the austerity measures in principle and are to vote on them individually Thursday.

"We have no hope. The only hope we have is the strength of the people," said protester Vagelis Filezis, a civil engineer.