A concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow became the scene of a deadly attack as gunmen clad in combat fatigues opened fire on attendees, leading to a significant number of casualties and a devastating fire. The Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, a suburb of Moscow, was hosting a concert when the attack unfolded on Friday evening.
The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has confirmed that at least 40 people were killed with over 100 more injured in the violence. Additionally, around 200 individuals are believed to be trapped inside the concert hall as the fire rages through the venue. RIA Novosti reported that the attackers, multiple men dressed in combat fatigues, unleashed their assault on concertgoers, causing pandemonium and fear.
As the tragedy unfolded, police units stormed the building where several of the attackers had barricaded themselves, according to a report from the Beware News Telegram channel. Eyewitnesses recounted an explosion occurring at the concert hall prior to the shooting, which ignited the fire, TASS state-run news agency informed.
The intensity of the situation was heightened as the concert hall’s roof reportedly began to cave in, further endangering those inside. Firefighters attending the scene were said to be waiting for special forces before attempting to control the blaze, with firefighting helicopters dispatched to assist.
Four of the perpetrators reportedly fled the scene, while others remained holed up in the building, as reported by Baza. A police dragnet was established around the area in an effort to capture the escaped assailants.
While the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office is still clarifying the number of fatalities and injuries, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for Russia’s foreign ministry, described the incident as a “bloody terrorist attack” and called for the international community to voice strong condemnation. “Now, as the Russian authorities have stated, all efforts are being devoted to saving people,” Zakharova said. “The entire world community is obliged to condemn this monstrous crime!”
Amidst the chaos and destruction, the U.S. Embassy in Russia had issued a warning on March 7 about the heightened threat of terror attacks in Moscow, specifically targeting places of mass gatherings, including concert venues. In response to the attack, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin canceled all cultural and sporting events planned over the weekend.
The local health ministry reported that numerous victims were admitted to hospitals following the attack. Russian media also reported that efforts to extinguish the growing fire involved the use of helicopters.
The Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), a paramilitary group of Russian fighters based in Ukraine, has denied involvement in the attack, stating, “Obviously, we have nothing to do with this,” as conveyed to Novaya Europe.
Relevant articles:
– At least 12 reportedly killed in shooting at Moscow concert hall
– Moscow concert attack live updates: Dozens reported dead after shooting, NBC News, Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:53:43 GMT
– Many Casualties Feared After Gunmen Attack Moscow-Area Concert Hall, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty, Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:35:51 GMT
– Moscow attack live updates: Gunmen open fire at concert hall as building in flames, The Independent, Fri, 22 Mar 2024 19:06:07 GMT