Over 140 Missing Following Crocus Terror Attack, Russian Investigative Committee Reports
The Russian Investigative Committee has reported that 84 bodies of victims have been identified following the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall near Moscow. Among the deceased are five children aged between 9 and 16 years. Investigators have also received 143 testimonies from victims regarding the disappearance of their relatives or friends, according to a statement from the agency's press service.
To ascertain the identity of the remaining victims, molecular genetic examinations are being conducted, as stated in the Investigative Committee's report following an operational meeting led by department head Alexander Bastrykin at the crime scene. Investigators and forensic experts continue to work at the site, examining the burned areas, collecting material evidence, and investigating issues related to anti-terrorism and fire safety measures.
The inquiry is also reportedly "analyzing the use of the internet by the accused for planning and executing the crime," the Investigative Committee stated.
The terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall occurred on March 22, just before a concert by the band "Picnic." Armed individuals invaded the building, opened fire, and set the area ablaze. A total of 140 people have been confirmed dead, with 360 others injured. The list of casualties released by the Ministry of Emergency Situations currently includes 120 names.