The attack occurred around 4:00 or 5:00 PM. A survivor recalled that the terrorists "went from shop to shop, sometimes torching [them]... They opened fire on anyone who tried to run away." Homes also were reported to have been burned during the massacre.[3]
Authorities confirmed at least 79 deaths, but expected there to be over 100.[2] Other estimates said that the death toll was 165.[4] According to Reuters, quoting anonymous sources, the attackers "targeted men but appeared to spare women and children".[1] 3,000 residents of the town were displaced to Dori.[5]