After the Fall

By: Peter McDonnell

Narrated by: Dion Graham

Audible Originals presents After the Fall, the incredible true story of the FBI’s groundbreaking investigation into the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The series also marks the 20th anniversary of the deadliest crime in modern US history.

Most Americans say 9/11 is the most significant historical event of their lives. It shocked a suddenly vulnerable nation, killed 3,000 people, and led to the longest war in US history. But for the FBI, 9/11 was also a crime.

Dozens of agents at the forefront of the case tell in their own words how they uncovered evidence to prove who was behind the attacks, reconstruct the "planes operation," interrogate terrorism suspects, prevent more attacks, and wrestle with the question of whether 9/11 itself could have been stopped.

9/11 nearly broke the FBI in two. But the investigation into 9/11 transformed the bureau into an agency that prioritized counterterrorism. It influenced the War in Afghanistan, led to a rift with the CIA about using torture to gather intelligence, and generated thousands of boxes of evidence for prosecutions in US courts—most of which have never occurred.

In this riveting series, agents tell their story from the perspective of being in the field, in the moment, as they work in extraordinary circumstances, against unparalleled problems, and face the highest stakes. From the crime scenes in lower Manhattan, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, the investigation unfolds in unexpected places: a mechanics’ garage, Fresh Kills landfill, a prison in Sanaa, Yemen, a ticket booth in Kandahar, Afghanistan, a safe house in Faisalabad, Pakistan, and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The FBI’s investigation into 9/11 is an essential part of the history of the September 11th terrorist attacks.

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After the Fall is dedicated to the many victims of the 9/11 attacks, including those who suffered from cancer and other illnesses because of their work at Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville.

©2024 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2025 Audible Originals, LLC

must listen

amazing awesome and heartbreaking all at once. 20yrs later it's still an event that is right there. Still so close in the rearview.

Lots of new information

Captivating, well written and expertly performed, this podcast is thoroughly researched and should be used at schools.

a version of the 911 story I had not heard

this is very well done. I have heard stories from Jim and Tim Clemente on Best Case Worst Case but to hear them in conjunction with other FBI agents was really touching and informative. Understanding the scope as well as limitations of the FBI during this time was frustrating but important knowledge.

great listen

Being someone who served in the military during that time good to hear we were out there protecting.

Wow!!!

This is my favorite podcast about 9/11 and past events that I've ever listened to!

Absolutely Astonishing, Brilliant Work

This series was one of the the most important things I've listened to to date. Right from the beginning, you are briefed on what you will hear over the course of 16 episodes, the story told through the perspective of the FBI agents involved in the 9/11 investigation. Our traditional perspective over the last 20 years has been widely political and military involvement minded when we think about those attacks in 2001. This instead, truly shines a light on the direct impact we saw within the country (not the various media outlets). Re-living the audio was emotional and real as if it was happening right now as you listen, Dion's performance, was exceptional.

In summary, I have grown an even more tremendous respect for the FBI, what they stand for, and most importantly of all, being able to hear the names and learn the personal stories of the individuals who make the FBI as great as it is then and still today. It was a thought provoking journey I will share with many, and never forget. Thank you Peter McDonnell and Bobby Chacon. Thank you very much for bringing this to life for all us listeners.

A very informative and compelling listen

I listened to all of the episodes and would highly recommend this to anyone who is old enough to remember the events as they unfolded or not. I have a whole new appreciation for those tasked with untangling the threads to find those responsible. The narrator was fantastic and snips of interviews instead of reading quotes brought it to life. Parts will get your pulse racing, your mind thinking, and your heart reaching out to those affected.

Amazing

Amazing, eye opening, wonderfully put together, intriguing, informative, powerful, I can’t say enough! This podcast was put together with morals and ethics in line where they should be. It stays based on the fact and leaves out the political bias you feel is so many other sources of information. Just the facts, that what you get with this. And the number one concern remains the American people and victims of the attack.

Enlightening

Firstly, the narrator, Dion Graham made this story great. With the smooth, calm voice of the late actor Burt Lancaster, his voice carries you through this horrendous time with absolute understanding.
I had so many questions regarding the events of 9/11, and how it came about, that were answered with this story. Deepest regards to the FBI for their strength & dedication to their job and to this country. Thank you.

Outstanding Story of the Worst Day in American History

The author dug deep and did not leave out any details. The account of this day, what led up to it, and what happened afterwards is remarkable!
The narration was spot-on! This narrator told the story with emphasis and emotion!
One of the best 9/11/2001 books I have listened to!