Remembering 9/11: A Timeline of Tragic Events

Overview of the September 11 Attacks

Initial Hijacking and Crashes

• At approximately 8:45 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11, bound for Los Angeles, is hijacked.

• A news bulletin reports that an airplane has crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 9:03 a.m.

• Viewers witness a second plane flying towards the South Tower, which crashes and explodes on impact at 9:03 a.m.

Government Response and Escalation

• President Bush, while visiting an elementary school in Sarasota, Florida, addresses the nation live at 9:30 a.m., stating that terrorism against America will not be tolerated.

• By 9:35 a.m., a third hijacked plane crashes into the Pentagon, confirming that the U.S. is under attack by terrorists.

Evacuations and Security Measures

• Following these attacks, major government buildings including the Capitol and White House are evacuated; Manhattan Island is sealed off with all bridges and tunnels closed.

Collapse of the Twin Towers

• The South Tower collapses at 9:59 a.m., marking a pivotal moment in New York's history.

• Just half an hour later, at 10:28 a.m., the North Tower also falls; within two hours of the first attack, both towers have disappeared from New York's skyline.

Aftermath and Immediate Reactions

• In response to the devastation near Ground Zero, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani expresses his concern over potential loss of life during a streetside news conference.