NALCHIK, Russia, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- Three people were confirmed dead after unknown assailants opened fire on a van carrying tourists from Moscow to the Elbrus mountain area, officials said.
The president of Russia's North Caucasus republic of Kabardino-Balkaria called Friday's attack a "kick in the teeth," RIA Novosti reported.
"This is not just an atrocious crime, this is a kick in the teeth to all the people of Kabardino-Balkaria, who consider hospitality as a cornerstone of their culture and lifestyle," Kabardino-Balkaria President Arsen Kanokov said.
Two people were injured in the attack. An unconfirmed media report said a fourth person died of injuries, but officials denied the claim.
Kanokov called on authorities to "protect tourists and ensure their security during the vacation."
Kanokov also said the victims and their families would be financially compensated.
