MOSCOW, Russia – At least 40 individuals were killed and over 100 injured in an armed assault at the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow, as reported by the state media TASS, citing preliminary information from the Federal Security Service of Russia.
The tragedy, which occurred on Friday, March 22, 2024, is currently under investigation by Russia’s Investigative Committee as a terrorist act.
The Crocus City Hall, a prominent location housing a music hall and a shopping center, became the scene of chaos as attackers opened fire with automatic weapons and deployed explosive devices, leading to a significant fire.
Footage from the scene displayed the severe extent of the devastation, including a partially collapsed roof and smoke engulfing the area.
The attack occurred shortly before the Russian rock band Picnic was scheduled to perform. According to Russia 24, the band’s manager confirmed that the members of Picnic were unharmed.
The Russia Prosecutor General’s Office provided a grim recount of the events, stating, “Unidentified people in camouflage broke into Crocus City Hall and started shooting before the start of the concert.”
Witnesses captured the ensuing panic on video, showing concertgoers screaming and seeking cover behind seats as the sound of gunfire filled the venue.
CNN geolocated footage of an assailant igniting at least one blaze inside the complex, marking a deliberate attempt to cause further harm and destruction.
Regional governor Andrey Vorobyov assured the public that efforts were underway to rescue and assist the victims, with a SWAT team deployed to the scene and over 70 medical teams providing urgent care.
Firefighters successfully evacuated approximately 100 individuals, and efforts continued to rescue those trapped on the roof, as reported by the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin expressed his sorrow over the incident, describing it as a “terrible tragedy” and extending his condolences to the victims’ families. Sobyanin has also ordered the cancellation of all sports, cultural, and public events in Moscow for the weekend, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the city’s period of mourning.
In response to the attack, the U.S. State Department issued a warning to Americans in Moscow, advising them to avoid the area and heed the instructions of local authorities.
Russia: The Embassy is aware of reports of an ongoing terrorist incident at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, near Moscow. U.S. citizens should avoid the area and follow instructions of local authorities. More at https://t.co/mkJSLapQ4O pic.twitter.com/QKIK8lqLl5
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) March 22, 2024
The statement highlights the limited capacity of the U.S. government to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia, citing restrictions imposed by the Russian government on travel and staffing for U.S. embassy personnel.
