On September 11, 2001, 19 members of the terrorist group Al-Qaeda hijacked four planes in a coordinated attack on the United States. Two of those planes crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City, causing the collapse of the Twin Towers and resulting in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. The aftermath of this event dramatically reshaped U.S. foreign policy and left a lasting mark on the world.
Unearthing the Lost Footage
Sugimoto discovered the long-forgotten footage while cleaning out old boxes in his home. Among the contents were video tapes he had filmed on that fateful day using a Sony VX2000 camera. Realizing the historical significance of what he had found, Sugimoto quickly digitized the footage before it could deteriorate any further. The result is a unique visual of the Twin Towers’ collapse, seen from a never-before-shared angle.
A Rare Perspective
Filmed from the roof of a building at 64 St Marks Place in New York City, the footage provides a view of the Twin Towers from the north—a vantage point not commonly seen in other recordings. The video captures the towers as they billow with smoke and then collapse, serving as a chilling reminder of the devastation that occurred on that day. One viewer commented, “This footage offers a rare perspective not typically seen from other angles.”
The Public’s Reaction
Since its release on July 23, 2023, Sugimoto’s footage has gone viral across social media platforms, sparking conversations and renewed reflections on the events of 9/11. Many were surprised that such significant footage could surface more than two decades after the tragedy. “It’s unbelievable that after almost 23 years, we’re still seeing new footage,” one Reddit user remarked.
The Importance of Preserving History
The release of this footage is a reminder of how vital it is to preserve historical records. As one commenter noted, “It makes you wonder how much history is sitting in people’s attics or basements, waiting to be found.” This footage not only adds a new visual dimension to the 9/11 narrative but also reinforces the importance of remembering the events that shaped the 21st century.
A Lasting Legacy
Kei Sugimoto’s decision to share this previously unreleased footage adds another layer to the story of 9/11. By providing a fresh perspective on the Twin Towers’ collapse, Sugimoto has helped ensure that future generations can better understand the magnitude of that day. As the footage continues to circulate, it stands as both a historical record and a sobering reminder of the enduring impact of 9/11 on the world.
