Moscow, Russia – Gunmen in camouflage attire carried out a deadly attack at a crowded concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow, leaving at least 62 people dead and many others wounded. The Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for the assault on the 6,200-seat Crocus City Hall venue in Krasnogorsk. The attack, marked by gunfire and explosions, resulted in the upper floors of the venue being engulfed in flames, causing the roof to collapse.
Video footage shared on social media depicted the chaotic scene inside the concert hall as attendees scrambled for safety amidst the spraying bullets. The Moscow Regional Health Ministry released a list of 145 victims who were transported to hospitals for treatment, including children. Reports from alleged eyewitnesses described a harrowing situation of “shooting from all sides.”
Following the incident, IS-affiliated Telegram channels released a statement claiming their fighters had targeted a large gathering on the outskirts of Moscow. The number of gunmen involved remains unclear, with varying reports suggesting three to five attackers. US intelligence services confirmed the IS statement but could not independently verify the claim that the attackers had safely retreated to their bases.
A US official, speaking anonymously, disclosed that Washington had previously alerted Moscow about a potential attack. Just weeks before the assault, the US Embassy in Moscow had issued a warning about imminent extremist plans targeting the capital. Despite the Kremlin being informed promptly about the attack, President Putin did not directly address the public following the tragedy.
The Crocus City Hall, a renowned concert venue in a prestigious area of Moscow, fell victim to this brutal attack. The venue, known for hosting major Russian musical performances, was scheduled to feature the Soviet-era band Piknik on the day of the incident. While the band members remained unharmed, the attack sent shockwaves both within Russia and across the globe, prompting condemnations from various world leaders. Russian authorities are actively investigating the heinous attack as the international community stands in solidarity with the victims and their families.