ISIS has claimed responsibility for an attack at a popular concert venue complex near Moscow on Friday, leaving at least 60 dead and 145 hospitalized. The assailants stormed the venue with guns and incendiary devices.
The terror group took responsibility in a statement published by ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram, though it provided no evidence.
Video footage from the site, Crocus City Hall concert venue, shows the complex ablaze, with smoke billowing into the air. Armed individuals reportedly opened fire and threw grenades or incendiary bombs before fleeing in a white Renault car.
The attack occurred just before the music group Picnic was scheduled to perform, according to Russia 24. Despite the chaos, the performers remained unharmed.
Panic ensued as gunshots echoed in the hall, with people huddling, screaming, and seeking cover. Some broke windows to escape. Footage shows armed individuals starting fires inside the venue.
Regional governor Andrey Vorobyov assured that all efforts were being made to save lives in one of Moscow’s deadliest terror attacks in decades. Emergency services, including a SWAT team and over 70 ambulances, were deployed to assist the victims.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was briefed on the situation and expressed wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured. Moscow residents were urged to donate blood to aid victims.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin called the attack a “terrible tragedy” and canceled all public events in the city for the weekend.
Shaman, the singer of Picnic, pledged to cover funeral costs for victims and treatment for the injured, emphasizing unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
