Honoring Victims of the 1993 World Trade Center Bombing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 26, 2026

THE 9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM HONORS VICTIMS OF THE 1993 WORLD TRADE CENTER BOMBING IN SOLEMN CEREMONY

New York, NY –  The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, together with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, remembered the victims of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing on the 33rd anniversary of the terrorist attack.

A moment of silence was observed at 12:18 p.m., the time of the terror strike that killed John DiGiovanni, Robert Kirkpatrick, Stephen Knapp, William Macko, Wilfredo Mercado, and Monica Rodriguez Smith and her unborn child. Each victim’s name was read aloud by family members during the annual ceremony attended by victims’ relatives, survivors, friends, and the New York City community.

Ceremony attendees honored the victims killed by placing roses on their names that are inscribed on the Memorial’s North Pool, near where One World Trade Center stands today. The six names appear alongside those of the victims of the 9/11 attacks.

“Thirty-three years ago, this day was marked by violence and loss. Today, we pause to honor and remember the lives cut short by that tragic moment in our history,” said Elizabeth L. Hillman, President & CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. “The names of Monica, Wilfredo, William, Stephen, Robert, and John will never be forgotten. We also recognize the heroism of all those who responded that fateful day, who’s service we also honor here.”

On February 26, 1993, the World Trade Center was the target of a coordinated terrorist attack that caused widespread destruction, claimed six lives, and injured more than 1,000 people. Those killed represented a cross section of the community that worked in and visited the complex each day, including Port Authority employees, a restaurant worker, and a visiting salesman.

“The February 26, 1993 bombing forever changed the World Trade Center and the lives of all who were connected to it. On this 33rd anniversary, we stand with the families and survivors to honor the six innocent lives lost and reaffirm our commitment to remembrance,” said Kathryn Garcia, Executive Director of the World Trade Center Department, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. “Their names, permanently inscribed alongside those lost on September 11, remind us of our enduring responsibility to remember, protect, and to learn from history.”

In the aftermath of the explosion, Port Authority staff and emergency responders acted swiftly and with extraordinary coordination, helping guide nearly 50,000 people to safety amid smoke, darkness, and chaos. Their actions reflected a deep commitment to public service and emphasized the importance of preparedness in the face of unexpected threats. The lessons learned that day continue to inform security and emergency response efforts at the World Trade Center and across the country.

“The 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center was a tragic act of terrorism that took innocent lives, injured thousands and forever changed this site.” said Charles Maikish, former Director of the World Trade Center Department, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. “It was also a moment that revealed the courage and professionalism of the first responders and Port Authority staff who acted with compassion and unwavering dedication.”

Later this year, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum will mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Through a series of unique programs and events, the Memorial & Museum will honor the victims and share the stories of resilience, service, and community that continue to shape our national identity.

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ABOUT THE 9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is the country’s principal institution concerned with exploring 9/11, documenting its impact, and examining its continuing significance. This mission is advanced through commemoration, education, and inspiration. Located on eight of the 16 acres of the World Trade Center site, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remembers and honors the 2,983 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993. Through exhibitions, a wide variety of programs, and commemorative events, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum seeks to educate the public – particularly the 100 million Americans born since the attacks – about the consequences of terrorism and its impact on individuals and communities. Through preserving and sharing stories of resilience, compassion, and courage, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum hopes to inspire individuals to build a more compassionate and secure world. For more information or to reserve a ticket to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, please visit 911memorial.org.

MEDIA INQUIRIES
Garrett Levine | (954) 464-4015 | press@911memorial.org