New DNA Advances Finally Lead to Major 9/11 Identification Milestones

Two decades after 9/11, DNA breakthroughs continue to identify victims, offering hope to families still seeking closure.

At a Glance

Recent DNA advancements have led to new identifications of 9/11 victims
40% of those lost on 9/11 remain unidentified
The identification process is the largest and most complex forensic investigation in U.S. history
Advanced DNA sequencing techniques are now being used to identify remains
Efforts continue with unwavering commitment to reunite victims with their families

Ongoing Efforts to Identify 9/11 Victims

In the wake of the September 11, 2001, attacks, forensic scientists and investigators have tirelessly worked to identify the remains of those lost. Despite the passage of time, their dedication has not wavered. The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office (OCME) continues its efforts, developing 37 new DNA profiles in the last year alone. This persistent work has resulted in the identification of 1,650 victims since efforts began.

The scale of this undertaking cannot be overstated. Mark Desire, the OCME’s Assistant Director, stated, “This is not only the largest forensic investigation in the history of the United States, but it also the most difficult.” The challenges faced by the identification team are numerous, from the fragmentation of remains due to high-velocity impacts to the degradation of DNA caused by environmental factors at Ground Zero.

Technological Advancements in DNA Testing

The progress in identifying victims has been made possible by significant advancements in DNA technology. John Butler, a key figure in the DNA identification efforts following 9/11, developed “miniSTR” DNA tests to improve information recovery from highly fragmented and degraded DNA samples. This technology, later modified into the “Big Mini” test, contributed to over 20% of the identifications made.

“I hope [this new DNA test] will help identify some of the victims from the World Trade Center disaster,” said John Butler.

Recent breakthroughs in DNA sequencing have further accelerated the identification process. These new techniques offer increased sensitivity and faster turnaround times, allowing for the identification of remains that were previously unidentified. The OCME is also exploring new methods, including genetic genealogy, to aid in their efforts.

The Ongoing Challenge

Despite these advancements, the task remains daunting. Approximately 1,103 victims of the September 11 attacks in New York City remain unidentified, representing 40% of those lost. The OCME holds roughly 7,000 human remains still awaiting identification. The team must exercise extreme caution when working with these fragments to avoid destroying the last remaining particles of DNA.

“We’re making identifications every year and we’ll continue to move forward and advance the science and come up with these great techniques to identify even more victims,” said Desire.

The unidentified and unclaimed remains were moved in 2014 to a repository beneath the World Trade Center memorial. This location includes a reflection room for families to remember their loved ones, providing a space for contemplation and closure. The OCME also maintains a collection of unidentified victims’ personal belongings for DNA cross-referencing, further demonstrating their commitment to this ongoing mission.

A Promise to the Families

The identification efforts represent more than just a scientific endeavor; they are a solemn promise to the families of those lost. Each new identification brings a measure of closure to a family that has waited over two decades for answers. As NYC Mayor Eric Adams stated, “We hope these new identifications can bring some measure of comfort to the families of these victims, and the ongoing efforts by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner attest to the city’s unwavering commitment to reunite all the World Trade Center victims with their loved ones.”

The work continues, driven by advances in technology and an unwavering dedication to honoring the memory of those lost on that tragic day. As we approach each anniversary of September 11, we are reminded of the importance of this ongoing mission and the impact it has on the families still seeking closure.