Russian teens honored for heroic evacuation during concert attack

Maria Lvova-Belova, the Commissioner for Children's Rights under the President of Russia, honoured two teenagers with letters of appreciation for their role in evacuating guests from Crocus City Hall during a terrorist attack on 22 March. The ceremony was reported by Russian media on Monday, showcasing the students receiving framed diplomas. However, reports also mentioned they were to receive laptops as part of their recognition.

The Kremlin awarded 15-year-old Islam Kalilov and 14-year-old Artem Donskow for their "sacrifice and personal courage in aiding the victims." Both are students at School Number 19 in Krasnogorsk, a city near Moscow.

Krasnogorsk is the location of Crocus City Hall, the concert venue targeted by terrorists. As reported by "Vedomosti", the boys were working in the cloakroom of this complex on the day of the attack.

Islam managed to lead 100 people to safety, demonstrating remarkable composure during the chaos. The 15-year-old quickly directed a section of the panicking crowd to another building, steering them away from the danger.

Artem Donskow, who also worked in the cloakroom, told the Russian station RBC that when gunfire erupted, guests began fleeing towards a service exit leading to a dead-end.

Realising many guests could end up trapped, the team redirected them to the emergency exit, thus avoiding potential further casualties.

"I don't see myself as a hero; it was just part of my job. I'm pleased we could assist, but also deeply saddened and horrified by the loss of so many lives" - Artem reflected. He admitted to feeling fear, yet his primary concern was for the safety of others over his own.

The incident, demonstrating the youths' bravery, occurred on a Friday evening at a concert and congress center close to Moscow. Gunmen stormed the venue, opening fire on attendees before setting the venue ablaze. According to Russian media, the attack resulted in 137 fatalities and over 180 injuries.

The suspects were apprehended and charged with terrorism by a Moscow court on Sunday evening. Four citizens of Tajikistan were brought to court, displaying severe signs of assault, with one appearing in a wheelchair due to his inability to walk. The men are facing life in prison.

Source: "Vedomosti"