In a harrowing incident that unfolded on the outskirts of Moscow, a group of gunmen launched a deadly attack on a concert hall, leading to a catastrophic fire and numerous casualties.
Reports indicate that between two and five assailants armed with automatic weapons stormed the venue during a performance by the veteran Russian rock band Picnic, opening fire on the unsuspecting crowd.
The chaos that ensued was compounded by a significant blaze that engulfed the Crocus City Hall, trapping some attendees inside and forcing others onto the roof in a desperate bid for safety. The rapid spread of the fire, visible from miles away, has added a layer of complexity to the rescue operations.
As the city reels from the shock, the death toll is feared to rise, with current figures reporting at least 40 fatalities and over 140 injuries. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, which has prompted a widespread manhunt for the gunmen who remain at large.
Moscow’s Mayor Sergey Sobyanin described the event as “a huge tragedy,” and condolences have poured in from around the world, including a statement from French President Emmanuel Macron condemning the violence.
The White House has also responded, calling the attack “terrible” and clarifying that there is no indication of Ukrainian involvement at this time.
This attack has drawn parallels with the 2002 Dubrovka theater hostage crisis, reminding many of the persistent threat of terrorism in the region.
