(DailyChive.com) – On Thursday, January 18th, New York City officials announced the identification of the 1,650th victim of the September 11th attacks, John Ballantine Niven from Oyster Bay, Long Island. This breakthrough, more than two decades after the tragedy, brings a glimmer of solace to his family and underscores the unwavering commitment to honoring all lives lost.
Niven, a 44-year-old senior executive in mergers and acquisitions at AON Risk Services, died on that fateful day while working on the 105th floor of the South Tower. His absence left a gaping hole in the lives of his wife, Ellen, and their 18-month-old son, John Jr.
Mayor Eric Adams stated that although the pain from the September 11th losses is constant, finding new identifications can bring comfort to the families of victims. He praised the ongoing efforts of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), acknowledging their hard work that led to this long-awaited resolution.
The OCME’s identification marked a significant victory in the ongoing battle against the unforgiving passage of time. Roughly 40% of the 9/11 victims remain unidentified, a stark reminder of the sheer scale of devastation. Dr. Jason Graham, New York City’s Chief Medical Examiner, assured that their promise to find answers for families using the latest science is as strong today as it was right after the World Trade Center attacks.
The breakthrough resulted from applying next-generation DNA sequencing technology, a powerful tool previously employed by the military. This highly sensitive and rapid technique proved instrumental in analyzing remains recovered from the World Trade Center site, ultimately providing the crucial evidence needed to confirm Niven’s identity.
Although new identifications become increasingly difficult as time passes, the OCME’s dedication remains unwavering. Just before the 22nd anniversary last year, two more victims were identified, their names withheld at their families’ request. These identifications, alongside Niven’s, stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and the promise to never let the memory of the victims fade.
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