The morning of September 11, 2001, in New York City was like any other, with clear skies and the normal buzz of a busy metropolis. People went about their day unaware of the dark events about to unfold. That Tuesday became one of the darkest chapters in American history. Recently, rare footage from CNN resurfaced, showing an unfiltered, close-up view of the second plane crashing into the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
This video does not add new information about the event but captures the raw emotions—the shock, fear, and grief—felt by many on the streets below. The footage shows bystanders looking upwards in disbelief, their expressions shifting from confusion to horror as the second plane approaches and hits the tower. The audio includes gasps and screams, painting a vivid picture of the chaos.
The camera was already rolling after the first plane hit the North Tower at 8:46 a.m., most people initially thinking it was an accident. The footage shows smoke against the bright blue sky and people trying to understand what was happening. But at 9:03 a.m., the lens follows another plane flying across Manhattan, and what viewers know all too well happens—the plane strikes the South Tower, causing a massive explosion.
Unlike many later broadcasts, this video is raw and unedited. It offers a truthful, real-time record without narration or cuts. The sounds of distant sirens, panicked voices, and shocked gasps immerse viewers in the relentless reality of that morning. This makes the footage invaluable historically, allowing younger generations to feel the same emotions those present experienced that day.
The cameramen risking their safety kept the camera rolling, unaware of the full scale of the destruction, creating an irreplaceable document of the attack. The footage also shows the humanity of that moment—groups of strangers, some frozen, others breaking down in tears, all united by fear and shock.
Today, this footage serves both as a memorial and a vital reminder of 9/11’s impact. It honors the thousands who lost their lives, the bravery of first responders, and the resilience of survivors. As time passes and memories fade, videos like this ensure the truth remains vivid and remind us all of the fragility of life and the power of unity in the face of terror.
