Advances in DNA testing have helped identify three more victims of the 9/11 attacks, more than 20 years after the event.
On Thursday, Dr Jason Graham, New York’s chief medical examiner, announced the identification of Ryan D. Fitzgerald, 26, from New York; Barbara A. Keating, 72, from California; and a third woman whose family requested privacy.
The attacks on New York City and the Pentagon killed nearly 3,000 people. However, around 1,100 victims’ remains have yet to be identified, according to the examiner’s office.
Recent improvements in DNA technology, such as automated methods for extracting genetic material from bone fragments, have made these new identifications possible. Additionally, forensic teams have maintained regular contact with victims’ families to provide updates and support.
Dr Graham said, “Nearly 25 years after the World Trade Center disaster, we remain committed to identifying the missing and returning them to their families. Each new identification shows the promise of science and the importance of sustained communication with families. We continue this work to honour those we lost.”
Remembering the victims and continuing the mission
Barbara Keating was on American Airlines Flight 11 when it struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 8.46am. This was the first plane hijacked that day, carrying 76 passengers and 11 crew members. Keating, a retired disability advocate and church worker, had been returning home early because her daughter had a minor car accident.
Ryan Fitzgerald worked as a foreign currency trader on the 94th floor of the South Tower. United Airlines Flight 175 struck the building at 9.03am.
New York Mayor Eric Adams promised to continue efforts to identify all those who died. He said, “The pain of losing a loved one on September 11 continues across the years. These identifications bring some comfort to grieving families. We hope those who receive answers from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner find solace in the city’s dedication to this mission.”
