FEARLESS Photojournalist’s Iconic 9/11 Chase

September 14, 2025

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Photographer Matt McDermott’s iconic 9/11 photo is more than just an image—it’s a testament to courage and duty amidst chaos.

Story Snapshot

Matt McDermott’s iconic photo captures the essence of 9/11’s impact.
His immediate response and instincts set him apart from other journalists.
The photo symbolizes the resilience and sacrifice of first responders.
McDermott’s work continues to shape the memory and narrative of 9/11.

McDermott’s Unprecedented Response to 9/11

On the morning of September 11, 2001, photographer Matt McDermott received a life-changing call from his mother, alerting him to the attacks on the World Trade Center. Within minutes, he borrowed a motorcycle and chased an NYPD cruiser into the heart of the unfolding disaster in Lower Manhattan. His swift actions and instinct to capture the moment set him apart from other journalists, resulting in a powerful visual record of courage and tragedy.

Throughout the day, McDermott documented the collapse of the Twin Towers and the heroic efforts of first responders. His photographs, especially the image of firefighter Mike Bellatoni kneeling in prayer, became defining visuals of 9/11, encapsulating the devastation and resilience of that fateful day. McDermott’s images were published worldwide, shaping public understanding and emotional response to the tragedy.

Prayers, ash, and shutter clicks: the shot that defined 9/11 and more https://t.co/0ZGgNEx49i pic.twitter.com/S3dsJ2Rw2c

— New York Post (@nypost) September 11, 2025

The Impact and Legacy of Iconic Imagery

McDermott’s photographs continue to be featured in retrospectives and commemorations, especially around the anniversaries of the attacks. His work remains a significant part of his legacy, illustrating the importance of bearing witness and the enduring power of images to inspire and inform. As a photojournalist, McDermott exemplifies the role of journalists as both witnesses and participants in history, capturing moments that resonate with the public on a deep emotional level.

The publication of such powerful images contributed to national and global responses, including policy changes and increased support for first responders. McDermott’s work inspired some Americans to serve their country, demonstrating the profound impact of visual journalism in crisis reporting. His experience is frequently cited in discussions about the role of journalists in dangerous environments, highlighting the risks and responsibilities faced by those documenting history.

Photojournalism and the Role of Journalists in Crisis

Industry experts emphasize the importance of McDermott’s composure and instinct in capturing defining moments. His approach—minimal gear, focus on storytelling, and willingness to enter dangerous situations—is cited as exemplary in the field of photojournalism. Scholars of media and trauma note the dual role of journalists as witnesses and participants, with McDermott’s experience serving as a case study for the ethical considerations of photographing tragedy.

As the years pass, McDermott’s images remain a critical part of the historical record, influencing how 9/11 is remembered and commemorated. His photographs have provided survivors, first responders, and victims’ families with a sense of recognition and resonance, while offering the broader public a visual understanding of the tragedy’s scale and human cost.