Moscow, Mar 23 : Preliminary data show that more than 60 people died as a result of a terrorist attack in the Crocus City Hall in the Moscow Region on Friday, the Russian Investigative Committee said in a statement on Telegram.

“The bodies of the dead are being examined. It has been preliminarily established that more than 60 people died as a result of the terrorist attack. Unfortunately, the number of victims may increase,” the committee said.

A shooting occurred on Friday in the Crocus City Hall concert venue just outside Moscow followed by a massive fire. According to preliminary data, several armed men opened fire inside the venue. The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said 40 people were killed. Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said 115 people were hospitalized, adding that more then 30 people sought outpatient care.

The committee said material evidence, including weapons and ammunition, is being confiscated from the crime scene in the Crocus City Hall near Moscow, examinations are being carried out, and camera recordings are being studied.

UNI