VideoNewsLive
REPORTING 2D AGO CBS NEWS

Custodian who saved several people, escaped World Trade Center's North Tower remembers 9/11

11 SEP 2026 · 19:51 ET·9:26·36K VIEWS

William Rodriguez, a custodian at the World Trade Center, recounted his harrowing experience on September 11, 2001. Initially planning to take the day off, he was persuaded to come into work, arriving at the North Tower shortly before the first plane hit. Rodriguez, who possessed a master key to all doors in the towers, used his knowledge of the building to help guide people to safety, including first responders, and is believed to be one of the last people to exit the North Tower alive.

WHY IT MATTERS

Rodriguez's firsthand account highlights the chaos and bravery of ordinary individuals during the 9/11 attacks, emphasizing the critical role of people like him in rescue efforts.

SEPTEMBER 11 ATTACKS WORLD TRADE CENTER WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ

POST ON X EMAIL

MORE FROM CBS NEWS

  1. Saudi Arabia's critical pipeline remains shut as oil prices soar 1H
  2. Why Democrats have edge in seats in fight for House C
  3. A history-making game opens NFL season 1H
  4. AI warnings from tech CEOs are a "wake-up call," financial expert says 1H

Top video stories delivered to your inbox daily

One email a day. No sponsored placement.