Moscow, Russia – A tragic incident unfolded at Crocus City Hall music venue near Moscow, leaving at least 40 people dead and over 100 wounded. The attack, carried out by gunmen in camouflage clothing who used automatic weapons, has shocked the nation. The Federal Security Service of Russia confirmed the death toll, while the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the devastating assault on their Telegram channel.
Reports suggest that after the gunmen opened fire, they also threw explosives, leading to a massive blaze that ultimately caused the collapse of the concert hall’s roof. Videos from the scene captured the intense flames and billowing black smoke rising into the sky. The attack occurred during a concert by the renowned Russian rock band Picnic, attracting a large crowd to the venue.
As the tragedy unfolded, efforts were made to evacuate visitors, but reports indicate that some individuals were still trapped inside the engulfed building. Authorities have called in a helicopter to assist in putting out the fire, while a search for the attackers has been launched by the Russian National Guard.
Following the incident, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced the cancellation of all mass gatherings for the weekend. Security measures at Moscow’s airports and train stations have been heightened in response to the attack. Videos circulating on social media depict harrowing scenes of civilians under attack and injured individuals lying outside the concert hall.
White House National Security Advisor John Kirby described the images from the attack as “horrible” and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. The US embassy in Russia had previously issued a warning about potential extremist threats in Moscow, urging caution in crowded areas.
Prior to the concert hall attack, Russia’s Federal Security Service had announced the prevention of a planned attack on a synagogue in Moscow by a cell associated with the Islamic State. The connection between these two incidents remains unclear, adding to the sense of unease in the city.