Over two decades after the horrific events of September 11, 2001, never-before-seen footage of the Twin Towers’ collapse has emerged. Captured by Kei Sugimoto, the footage provides a new perspective on one of the darkest moments in modern history. After keeping the footage stored for more than 22 years, Sugimoto recently decided to share it with the world.

The Day That Shook the World

On September 11, 2001, 19 Al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four planes, launching a coordinated attack on the United States. Two of those planes were flown into the World Trade Center in New York City, leading to the eventual collapse of both towers and claiming nearly 3,000 lives. This devastating attack left a permanent mark on the U.S. and forever changed its foreign policy.

Rediscovering the Footage

Sugimoto had forgotten about the footage he filmed that day, only rediscovering it while cleaning out his closet. Stored on old video tapes, the footage was recorded with a Sony VX2000 camera, capturing the Twin Towers from a perspective few have seen. Worried that the tapes might deteriorate over time, he quickly digitized them, preserving an incredible yet harrowing piece of history.

A Unique Perspective

Filmed from a rooftop at 64 St Marks Place in New York City, the footage shows the towers collapsing from the north—a view not widely captured in other recordings. The images of the towers engulfed in black smoke and crumbling to the ground are a chilling reminder of the immense destruction that day. One viewer described the footage as “a unique perspective, not seen from the usual south or east angles.”

Public Reaction

Since its release on July 23, 2023, Sugimoto’s footage has gained widespread attention and gone viral on social media platforms. Viewers expressed disbelief that new footage of such a significant event could still surface more than two decades later. “It’s wild that 23 years later, we’re still seeing new angles of the collapse,” one Reddit user remarked.

Historical Importance

This newly released footage underscores the vital role of preserving historical records. One viewer on social media reflected, “It makes you wonder how much history is hidden in people’s attics or basements, waiting to be found.” Sugimoto’s recording offers more than just a new visual; it serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of 9/11 and the importance of collective memory.

Credit: Pexels

A Legacy Preserved

By sharing this footage, Kei Sugimoto has added another layer to the narrative of 9/11. The new angle provides a fresh visual account of the tragedy, ensuring future generations can see and understand the magnitude of the events that unfolded that day. As the footage continues to circulate, it stands not only as a historical document but also as a reminder of the lasting impact that 9/11 had on the world.