Three More Victims of 9/11 Identified After Nearly 24 Years

Nearly twenty-four years after the September 11 attacks, authorities have confirmed the identities of three additional victims. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner utilized advanced DNA analysis and family contact to identify the remains of Ryan Fitzgerald from Floral Park, Barbara Keating from Palm Springs, and an unidentified woman whose family preferred privacy.

Ryan Fitzgerald, 26, was working as a currency trader at Fiduciary Trust International when Flight 11 hijacked and crashed into the South Tower. He had called his family after the attack to say he was safe and was preparing to leave the building. His remains were identified through evidence recovered in 2002.

Barbara Keating, a 72-year-old grandmother, was aboard American Airlines Flight 11 departing Boston shortly before it struck Manhattan. Her family’s efforts to identify her remained ongoing until her remains were linked to those found in 2011. Her son reflected on how she enjoyed her final summer, spending time with grandchildren before her tragic death.

The medical examiner’s office confirmed that the remains of the third victim were linked to materials found in 2011. Overall, more than 1,600 victims have been officially identified, but roughly 1,100 remain unidentified. The continued efforts reflect a commitment to providing closure for families and honoring those lost.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed sympathy, stating, “With these identifications, we take a step forward in easing the pain of families still mourning. We remain dedicated to this mission as a tribute to the victims.”

Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Jason Graham emphasized the importance of ongoing scientific and familial outreach in the identification process, underscoring that each discovery honors the memory of those who perished on that tragic day.