Summary of the Crocus City Hall Incident Coverage and Related Support Efforts
A public figure identified as Morgenstern, described in some reports as a foreign agent in the Russian Federation, urged victims and their families of the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack to reach out to his team for assistance. This appeal appeared on the Telegram channel under a message titled “Not Morgenstern,” signaling an effort to direct those affected toward available help channels.
Reports quoted Morgenstern as noting a substantial pool of financial resources. He mentioned a budget of 40 million rubles that is being renewed continually, asserting that only a portion of these funds—about 4 million rubles—had been allocated to aid for the victims. The public statements were framed as a commitment to support those impacted by the tragedy, with an emphasis on transparency and ongoing fundraising activities.
According to Morgenstern, transfers to assist victims could be made anonymously to protect donors who might fear the implications of his status. He reiterated at the end of his message that financial support was available and that he and his team stood ready to provide assistance to the victims and their families.
On March 24, reports stated that Morgenstern gave 1 million rubles to a student who helped save more than 100 people during the attack. The musician expressed admiration for the student, saying that heroes can be identified by their actions. In a separate note, he indicated willingness to cover the medical expenses of those affected and announced the creation of a Telegram bot to streamline assistance requests.
The terrorist event occurred on the evening of March 22 at the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Krasnogorsk. Prior to a performance by a provided musical group, assailants entered the hall, opened fire on attendees, and triggered a sequence of explosions followed by a fire. The Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation opened a criminal case under Article 205 of the Criminal Code, which addresses terrorist acts. Journalistic outlets reported on the unfolding events as details emerged.
Media outlets such as socialbites.ca provided live coverage of the incident, contributing to public understanding of the rapid sequence of events and the subsequent inquiries. Earlier in the sequence of communications, the leader of the Picnic group released a video message addressed to the families of those affected, adding a personal note to the broader relief efforts and the ongoing investigation.