The Day That Changed the World
More than two decades after the devastating attacks of September 11, 2001, chilling new footage has emerged—revealing a never-before-seen angle of the Twin Towers’ collapse. Captured by Kei Sugimoto and kept hidden for over 22 years, this haunting video offers a fresh, intimate perspective on one of the most tragic events in modern history. Now released to the public, it reignites powerful memories of the day that forever changed the world
On the morning of September 11, 2001, 19 terrorists from the jihadist group Al-Qaeda carried out a coordinated assault on the United States, hijacking four commercial airplanes and turning them into deadly weapons. Two of those planes struck the Twin Towers of New York City’s World Trade Center, triggering their catastrophic collapse and claiming the lives of nearly 3,000 people. The attacks not only shook the nation to its core but also reshaped U.S. foreign policy and left an indelible mark on global history.
Unearthed After Two Decades: Rediscovering the 9/11 Footage
While cleaning out his closet, Kei Sugimoto stumbled upon a forgotten box of old video tapes—silent witnesses to history. Among them was footage he had personally recorded on September 11, 2001, using his Sony VX2000 camera. Fearing the fragile tapes might be lost to time, he quickly digitized them. What emerged was a haunting, never-before-seen perspective of the Twin Towers’ collapse—raw, intimate, and unlike anything previously released.
A Unique Perspective of the Collapse
Filmed from the rooftop of a building at 64 St. Marks Place in New York City, Sugimoto’s footage captures the Twin Towers from a rare northern vantage point—one not commonly featured in most 9/11 recordings. As thick plumes of black smoke pour from the towers moments before their collapse, the camera offers a stark, chilling reminder of the chaos and devastation of that day. One viewer remarked, “This footage offers a unique perspective not seen from the south or east”—underscoring its significance in deepening our collective understanding of the tragedy.
Public Reaction to the Unearthed Footage
Since its release on July 23, 2023, Sugimoto’s footage has gone viral, igniting widespread discussions across social media. Many viewers expressed disbelief that new footage of the Twin Towers’ collapse could still surface after more than two decades. “It’s crazy that we’re almost 23 years out and still getting new footage,” one Reddit user commented, highlighting the profound impact the video continues to have on how we remember that fateful day.
The Historical Significance of the Footage
A Legacy Preserved
The release of this footage serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving history. As one Reddit user thoughtfully remarked, “Makes me wonder how much history is being stored in people’s attics or basements, just waiting to be unearthed.” This newly uncovered footage not only offers a fresh perspective on 9/11 but also deepens our collective memory of an event that forever altered the course of the 21st century.
Kei Sugimoto’s choice to release this previously unseen footage adds a powerful new dimension to the complex story of 9/11. Offering a rare, unique visual perspective of the Twin Towers’ collapse, it ensures that future generations will not only witness the scale of the tragedy but also grasp the profound impact of that day. As the footage continues to circulate, it stands as both a historical artifact and a poignant reminder of the lasting legacy of 9/11, ensuring its place in the collective memory of the world.