On the morning of September 11, 2001, an ordinary Tuesday in New York City turned catastrophic in moments. Rare CNN footage has resurfaced, showing an unedited close-up of the second plane crashing into the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
The video not only shows the plane’s devastating impact but also the raw reactions of bystanders on the street below. Their expressions move from confusion to horror as they watch smoke billow and then see the explosion that stamped this as an act of terror, not accident.
Unlike edited broadcasts, this footage preserves authentic sounds—the sirens in the distance, gasps, and cries—allowing viewers to experience the shock and grief firsthand. For many, it is a painful yet vital reminder of that dark day and an important piece of history.
