Gunmen Storm Concert Venue in Moscow, Killing Dozens
A group of gunmen launched a deadly attack on a concert venue on the outskirts of Moscow on Friday night, leaving at least 60 people dead and more than 100 wounded, according to Russia’s top security agency.
The incident took place at Crocus City Hall, one of the largest and most popular concert venues in Moscow, located within a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex. Explosions and a massive fire broke out during the attack, causing chaos and devastation.
Authorities in Russia have not yet identified the perpetrators behind the attack, but U.S. officials suspect that a branch of the Islamic State, ISIS-K, based in Afghanistan, may be responsible. Russia’s Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case into the incident, treating it as a terrorist act.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, images emerged showing the aftermath of the attack, with bodies in the parking lot, firefighters battling the blaze, and security personnel directing people to safety. A video obtained by Reuters captured gunmen walking through the concert hall and firing on innocent concert-goers.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the region, with neighboring countries like Ukraine quick to distance themselves from any involvement. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow had issued a security alert just days before, warning of potential extremist threats targeting large gatherings in the city.
As the investigation into the attack continues, the people of Moscow are left mourning the loss of so many lives and grappling with the senseless violence that has shaken their community.
