Karen Rowland, who now resides in Reading, described the disorienting moments of September 11, 2001, when she witnessed the second plane strike the World Trade Center. Initially believing the first plane crash was an accident, Rowland's perception shifted dramatically upon seeing the second impact.
Rowland recounted seeing the first plane hit the North Tower on television and, like many others, initially assumed it was an aviation accident. She drew a parallel to historical events, such as the 1945 plane crash into the Empire State Building. While leaving her apartment, she encountered a neighbor, a doctor affiliated with a nearby hospital, and shared her premonition of a difficult day ahead.
Moments later, outside her building, Rowland witnessed the second plane hit the South Tower. This event made it clear to her that the unfolding events were not accidental. She recalled an atmosphere of intense emotion, with strangers embracing and periods of profound silence.
"In a moment like that you don't really grasp what's going on," Rowland stated. She later learned that some of her business clients were on one of the planes. At the time of the attacks, Rowland was working as a fashion designer in New York City. She has since moved to Reading and previously served as a borough councilor.