A large concert hall in Moscow was violently attacked on Friday, with assailants opening fire on the crowd, resulting in the deaths of more than 60 individuals and leaving over 100 injured. The venue was also set ablaze during the brazen assault, which occurred shortly after President Vladimir Putin secured a landslide victory in a heavily orchestrated election.
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack through statements on social media channels affiliated with the organization. U.S. intelligence agencies had prior knowledge of the group’s plans for an attack in Moscow, particularly orchestrated by its branch in Afghanistan, which they shared with Russian officials.
Details regarding the fate of the attackers following the raid remain unclear, with state investigators categorizing the incident as an act of terrorism.
This deadly attack, resulting in the loss of numerous lives and significant destruction, marks one of the worst instances of violence in Russia in recent years. The assault took place amidst the country’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now entering its third year. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin labeled the raid as a “huge tragedy,” with President Putin being informed moments after the assailants stormed the Crocus City Hall, a venue capable of accommodating thousands of people.
The concert hall was packed with attendees gathering for a performance by the Russian rock band Picnic when the attack unfolded. According to the Investigative Committee, over 60 fatalities were reported, with 145 individuals sustaining injuries, 115 of whom were hospitalized, including five children.
There are fears that additional casualties might have occurred due to the ensuing blaze sparked by explosives thrown by the assailants. Disturbing footage depicted the building engulfed in flames, with emergency responders working tirelessly to contain the inferno.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as gunfire erupted inside the hall. Videos circulated by Russian media and messaging apps depicted armed men firing upon helpless concertgoers at close range, while others recounted the terror of witnessing the venue being set ablaze amidst a barrage of gunshots.
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