ISIS claims responsibility for attack in busy Moscow-area concert venue that left at least 60 dead (video)

The gunmen as they entered the Crocus City Hall

ISIS, also known as the Islamic State, has claimed responsibility for the recent attack at a popular concert venue complex near Moscow. The assault resulted in at least 60 fatalities and over 100 injuries as assailants armed with guns and incendiary devices stormed the venue.

The terror group asserted its involvement through a statement published on the ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram, although they did not provide evidence to substantiate their claim.

Crowds scatter inside the Crocus City concert hall as the shooting started

The incident occurred at the Crocus City Hall concert venue, where armed individuals opened fire and set off an incendiary device, leading to a fire that caused substantial damage. The attack took place just before the music group Picnic was scheduled to perform.

Footage from the scene depicted scenes of chaos and panic as attendees sought shelter from the gunfire and ensuing flames. Emergency response teams, including SWAT teams, firefighters, and medical personnel, worked tirelessly to rescue and treat the victims.

Flames belch from the roof of the Crocus City Hall as dozens of emergency service vehicles attend the scene

As a result of the attack, 145 individuals were hospitalized, with 60 in serious condition. The mayor of Moscow, Sergei Sobyanin, declared the incident a "terrible tragedy" and canceled all public events in the city for the weekend.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack in strong terms, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families.

A nationwide manhunt has been launched for the individuals (pictured) thought to be responsible for the terror attack

The attack comes in the context of heightened security concerns, with prior warnings from the US embassy about potential terrorist threats targeting large gatherings in Moscow.

These warnings, although criticized by Russian President Vladimir Putin as "provocative," highlight the ongoing challenges in combating terrorism and ensuring public safety.