Teen heroism: Recounting Islam Khalilov's courageous act during Moscow terror attack

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) – Islam Khalilov, a 15-year-old boy who saved over a hundred people during Friday's terrorist attack on the Crocus City concert hall in the Moscow region, said the attack "was a harrowing experience, especially amid a panicked crowd, and gunfire."

Recounting the events in an interview with Anadolu, the teenager described that day as “a typical working day,” noting he was not anticipating any mishaps — performed his duties, serving the spectators, and took a break. When the third bell rang, signaling the closure of the auditorium doors and the commencement of the concert at exactly eight in the evening, the terrorist attack unfolded.

At least 140 people were killed and more than 360 injured on March 22 when gunmen opened fire at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Oblast.

The Investigative Committee said it detained 11 people, including four perpetrators, in the border region of Bryansk, who were on their way to Ukraine.

- Evacuating panic-stricken people

"At first, I heard unusual sounds from the first floor while I was working in the wardrobe on the basement floor. Initially, I thought it might be a drunken altercation or escalator malfunction," he said. "Then, panic-stricken people began fleeing in different directions from the escalator and stairs, confirming my suspicion of a terrorist attack. I immediately initiated the evacuation plan, directing people towards the Crocus Expo International Exhibition Center adjacent to the concert hall."

Khalilov mentioned that the staff had recently undergone training on responding to such emergencies.

"The training was prompted by intelligence suggesting the possibility of a terrorist attack, particularly in concert halls, disseminated on March 8. Consequently, management decided to prepare us. Overall, we were prepared," he emphasized.

In such crises, remaining composed and executing tasks swiftly and accurately is imperative.

"It's crucial to act promptly and efficiently, almost instinctively, because lives hang in the balance," he noted. "My first step was to gain people's attention. Dressed in the hall's uniform and being a familiar face from the wardrobe, individuals instinctively trusted my guidance. I directed them according to the evacuation plan, ensuring order and safety throughout."

The boy affirmed that he would return for anyone left behind inside the building, but once outside, security personnel prevented re-entry.

"It was a harrowing experience, especially amidst the panicked crowd, fearing potential gunfire," he shared.

- Hero reception at school

Khalilov recounted that law enforcement arrived approximately 40 minutes to an hour later, as they were not promptly alerted.

"Fortunately, the attack occurred after Iftar, the meal to break the Ramadan fast, leaving me feeling refreshed and fortified. Thanks to Allah's protection, I returned home unharmed," he emphasized.

Regarding the aftermath, he expressed that interacting with others and his faith provided solace, alleviating any lasting effects.

"Religious practices, such as nighttime prayers and dhikr recitations, bring me peace and aid restful sleep," he remarked. "Had the attack not occurred, it would have been an ordinary day at work with no special plans," he added.

On Monday, Islam attended school, where he was honored in a ceremony attended by notable figures. "I received warm accolades, being hailed as a hero for my actions," he said.

- ‘I named my first-born after our religion'

Meanwhile, Islam's father, Bakhtiyor Khalilov, said he had his ordinary workday when his son contacted him about the terrorist attack.

"At first, I didn't grasp the gravity of the situation. It wasn't until the second time that it sank in – there had been a terrorist attack, people had been shot at close range," he recalled.

"I inquired about his well-being, and he assured me of his safety. He mentioned evacuating over 100 people, although he didn't keep count. He managed to capture a few videos, which later confirmed the number of individuals rescued."

Khalilov Senior recounted returning home to embrace his son after work: "We recited prayers and watched footage of the evacuation, offering prayers for those still inside," he shared.

"We come from a diverse background, we are an international family. I'm Uzbek, and my wife is Kyrgyz. Islam attended several schools by the age of 15 due to our relocations across Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan," he explained.

Bakhtiyor Khalilov works in construction and has three children – two boys and a daughter. He takes pride in raising his sons himself with care.

- ‘I am proud of my son's heroism’

"My son is incredibly active, pursuing football with aspirations for a professional career. He's been balancing school with part-time work since he was 12 years old," he mentioned.

"I'm immensely proud of my son's heroism. Islam, named in honor of our religion, embodies the teachings of Islam through his actions. I constantly remind both my sons to lend a helping hand, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity," he emphasized.

"Our religion promotes kindness and condemns acts of terror. Those responsible have no affiliation with Islam. Islam does not teach us that. Islam is a very beautiful and orderly religion," he stressed.