Automatic machine gun fire and explosives have left a large auditorium in Moscow on fire and strewn with bodies.
According to a Russian state-owned domestic news agency, at least three masked gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall music venue a short time ago.
Videos verified by The New York Times depict the assailants firing indiscriminately at civilians and security personnel. Another video showed crowds leaving the venue in a panic running past casualties in the lobby.
Per The New York Times:
In videos filmed from inside the concert hall, audience members awaiting an upcoming performance by the veteran rock band Piknik are heard screaming and repeated gunshots from outside of the hall. Other videos filmed from a highway outside of the building show parts of it on fire producing heavy smoke.
According to RIA Novosti, the Moscow regional governor arrived on the scene shortly after emergency services personnel.
On March 7, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow issued a security alert warning that its personnel were “monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts.” The statement warned U.S. citizens that an attack could take place in the next 48 hours.
When asked about the situation, Moscow Mayor Sergei S. Sobyanin commented that a “terrible tragedy” was occurring.
SWAT teams have arrived on scene.
The number of casualties has yet to be confirmed. European social media agency Visegrád 24 is reporting at least 60 killed.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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