Moscow, Russia – At least 93 people lost their lives and over 140 others sustained injuries in a horrifying attack at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow on Friday night. The assailants, armed with automatic weapons and explosives, created chaos at the concert hall, leading to a massive blaze. Among the victims were children, as confirmed by Russian government officials.
Reports from Russian media indicated that between two to five assailants, dressed in combat attire, unleashed terror at the venue in Krasnogorsk, a suburb of Moscow. ISIS, also known as Islamic State, claimed responsibility for the attack shortly after on its Telegram channel.
The scene was described as chaotic, with flames engulfing the building and emergency vehicles flashing blue lights in the night. Footage showed the roof collapsing, multiple blasts occurring, and hundreds fleeing the area. Helicopters were deployed to contain the fire and evacuate around 100 individuals.
The concert hall, hosting a performance by Picnic, a renowned Russian rock band, can accommodate over 6,000 attendees and is part of a larger complex including a shopping mall and convention center.
Eyewitness accounts captured moments of terror as gunfire erupted, sending people scrambling for safety. Videos depicted armed attackers shooting at civilians, leading to tragic scenes of bloodshed and panic.
The United States confirmed ISIS’s involvement in the attack through its affiliate ISIS-Khorasan. The warning about potential attacks on large gatherings, including concerts, had been issued earlier this month by the U.S. embassy in Moscow and reiterated by other Western nations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the atrocity, offering well wishes to the injured. Global Affairs Canada advised against travel to Russia due to ongoing conflict with Ukraine and heightened terrorism risks.
As the search for the perpetrators continues, Russian authorities are on high alert, enhancing security measures at key locations. The incident has reignited memories of past terror attacks in Russia, underscoring the nation’s resilience in the face of such tragedies.