A devastating attack unfolded at a prominent concert venue complex near Moscow on Friday, leaving a trail of destruction with at least 40 dead and over 100 wounded.

The assailants, armed with guns and incendiary devices, stormed the venue, setting off chaos and panic among concert-goers.

Claiming responsibility for the heinous act, the transnational terror network ISIS asserted its involvement in a terse statement released through the ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram.

However, authorities are yet to substantiate these claims with concrete evidence.

The harrowing scenes captured on video from the site of the attack, Crocus City Hall concert venue, revealed a scene of horror as flames engulfed the complex, sending plumes of smoke into the air.

Reports from state-run RIA Novosti detailed how the armed attackers unleashed a barrage of gunfire and hurled grenades or incendiary bombs, igniting a devastating fire before fleeing the scene in a white Renault car, CNN reported.

As the assault unfolded, panic gripped the concert hall, with attendees scrambling for cover amidst the deafening sounds of gunshots.

Videos being shared on X, formerly Twitter, moments after the attack depicted the chaos inside, with armed individuals seen igniting fires, adding to the mayhem.

Despite the swift response from authorities, casualties mounted rapidly, with dozens of lives lost and scores more injured.

Firefighters raced against time to evacuate approximately 100 people trapped inside the burning building, while emergency medical teams worked tirelessly to tend to the wounded.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, regional governor Andrey Vorobyov assured the public that every effort was being made to save lives, with specialized SWAT teams and a multitude of ambulance crews mobilized for the rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin announced the suspension of all public events in the city, extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and pledging comprehensive support to those affected by the calamity.

As investigations into the attack intensify, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed on the unfolding situation, with security measures heightened in response to the grave threat posed by ISIS.

This devastating incident comes amidst heightened tensions following warnings from the US embassy in Russia about potential terror threats targeting large gatherings in Moscow.

However, Putin denounced these warnings as “provocative,” underscoring the need for vigilance in the face of extremist threats.

Amidst the chaos, Ukraine swiftly disavowed any involvement in the attack, emphasizing its commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak dismissed allegations of Ukrainian complicity, cautioning against the exploitation of the tragedy for propagandist ends in the ongoing conflict with Russia.