A horrifying mass shooting took place at Crocus City Hall, a concert hall located in a Moscow suburb, on Friday night. Russian authorities and state-run media have confirmed the incident, stating that multiple people were reportedly injured, with some believed to have been killed.

Disturbing videos shared online captured the terrifying attack. In one video, at least two masked men can be seen entering Crocus City Hall, with one of them continuously firing shots from what appears to be an assault rifle. Another graphic video shows four armed individuals chasing a group of people and relentlessly shooting at them.

The state-run TASS news agency released footage displaying a massive fire enveloping Crocus City Hall, located around 16 kilometers northwest of Moscow's center. Responding swiftly to the unfolding tragedy, Andrei Vorobyov, the Moscow region Governor, arrived at the scene and took charge of response efforts.

Over 70 ambulance teams were deployed near Crocus City Hall, providing medical aid to those injured in the attack. Additionally, Spetznaz and riot police units were dispatched to handle the situation, as reported by the TASS news agency, citing an anonymous law enforcement source.

Eyewitness accounts from the concert hall indicate that at least three individuals started firing shots at the crowd. A reporter at the scene, quoted by the RIA Novosti news agency, stated, "People in camouflage broke into the stalls of Crocus City Hall, at least three of them opened fire with automatic weapons. There are definitely wounded."

The reporter also mentioned that a grenade or an incendiary bomb was thrown, leading to a fire within the concert hall. People in the venue sought safety by lying on the floor before eventually crawling out after around 15 to 20 minutes. Many managed to escape the building.

While various anonymous Telegram channels have reported multiple fatalities, these claims are yet to be verified, and official statements regarding casualties have not been released by Russian authorities.

Emergency services are actively working to evacuate individuals from Crocus City Hall. According to the Moscow region's branch of the Emergency Situations Ministry, around 100 people have been rescued from the basement, while efforts are underway to evacuate people from the roof.

It is estimated that up to 6,200 people may have been present in the concert hall at the time of the attack, based on a seating plan of the venue. Fortunately, members of the band Piknik, who were performing that night, were confirmed to be safe.

Russia's Investigative Committee, responsible for probing major crimes, has opened a criminal terrorism case in connection to this tragic incident. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin expressed his condolences to the victims and their loved ones, stating that all public events in the Russian capital have been canceled for the weekend.

The White House also extended its sympathies to the victims, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby acknowledging the grim images and describing the shooting as a "terrible attack."

This breaking news story continues to develop, and further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.