In a harrowing display of bravery, 15-year-old Islam Khalilov is being hailed as a hero for leading over 100 people to safety during the terrorist attack at Moscow's Crocus City Hall on Friday. Working as a cloakroom attendant at the venue, Khalilov's quick thinking and familiarity with the building enabled him to prevent further casualties in the tragic event.

The horrifying ordeal unfolded when strange sounds were heard on the first floor of the concert hall. Initially, it was thought that a noisy group had arrived, but Khalilov soon realized the gravity of the situation. Speaking in an interview, he revealed, "I understood that if I didn't react, I would lose my life and the lives of many people. Honestly, it was very scary."

Footage captured from various angles shows the young teenager courageously shouting orders to concertgoers and guiding them towards an emergency exit. With urgency in his voice, Khalilov can be heard directing everyone, saying, "That way, that way, that way… Everybody go that way. Everybody over there. To the Expo, to the Expo."

Despite the daunting circumstances, Khalilov's determination and presence of mind prevailed. "When I was in the crowd of people, walking to the door to open it, I thought [the gunmen] might come out of the stairs or from the escalator, and throw a grenade or open lethal fire," he recalled. "Thank God, nothing happened. I managed to open the door in time and let everyone out towards the Expo."

Remarkably, Khalilov had been prepared for such a crisis. "We were shown and told where to send people if something happened. I knew where to take people to keep them safe," he explained. However, the traumatic experience has left a lasting impact on the young hero. "That all this happened before my eyes... I'm still in a state of shock. A man was shot right in front of me, I can't stop thinking about it," he confessed.

The devastating attack claimed the lives of at least 133 innocent people. In response, Russian authorities have made 11 arrests, attributing direct involvement in the massacre to four of the suspects. President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation on Saturday, condemning the horrific act as a "bloody, barbaric terrorist act." As a mark of respect and remembrance for the victims, Sunday, March 24, has been declared a day of mourning.

Islam Khalilov's heroic actions amidst the chaos and danger have captured the nation's admiration. His courage and selflessness saved numerous lives, making him a true inspiration in the face of tragedy.