9/11 Stories: Matt Bocchi

Matt Bocchi is a victim of 9/11, although he was in New Jersey, in 2nd grade that day. At 29, he is a survivor of sexual abuse, drug, and alcohol addiction, all stemming from the pain of losing his dad. Matt was just 9 years old when his 38 year old dad, John, died in the terror attacks on The World Trade Center, one of 658 Cantor Fitzgerald employees killed that day, two-thirds of the company’s New York City workforce. Matt describes himself as “super close” to his dad and became obsessed to learn exactly how he died. At just 10 or 11 years old, he started looking at books on 9/11. As he began watching every video he could find, one showing someone jumping, Matt became convinced his father jumped to his death, the lower half of his body found on September 14th. Other than going to school and playing sports, he spent every waking moment looking at pictures or videos of the jumpers. His mom told him he needed to stop. Only one relative was supportive of his obsession: an uncle by marriage. Matt says he later came to realize his uncle was just grooming him for sexual abuse, after which Matt numbed his pain through drugs and alcohol. He was 23 when a spiritual visit from his dad compelled him to make the call to enter rehab. It was only after he got sober that he could talk about the sexual abuse. He took legal action against his uncle, who did 4 years in prison before he was released in 2020. Matt is the first child of a 9/11 victim to share his entire story in a book. His memoir is titled “Sway” .
► Listen LIVE: q1043.iheart.com/
► Facebook: / q1043ny
► Twitter: / q1043
► Instagram: / q1043

[@commonsense9494]

30 cars in front of your home and no family member came to pick you and your brother from school...shook me to tears......

[@taffycat5049]

OMG, to think that his "uncle" exploited this young man's grief from losing his father to abuse him is unconscionable. There's a special place in hell for that guy. I'm in awe of this young man's resilience.

[@andrew5184]

Yes. But it’s also tragic that his mother couldn’t create a safe space for him to explore this with her. It set him up to be groomed.

[@stogiedad1]

@@andrew5184 really hoping you phrased this oddly. I would hate to think anyone would place blame on her for something she couldn't control (the entire situation). But yes, this is exactly the type of situation that abusers seek out, sick as that is.

[@andrew5184]

@@stogiedad1 I’m certain I could have phrased it better. But even if I did, I suspect some would still wrestle with what I’m saying here. I don’t wish to place blame on the mother (or anyone else other than the perpetrator) for what occurred. But we also should acknowledge that abuse of this kind doesn’t occur in a vacuum. A parent who fails to attune to a child contributes to an environment where one is susceptible to the kind of grooming described in this video. She no doubt had her own immense grief and heartache to deal with, but that does not mean there are not consequences for how one choose to deal with (or avoid) grief. It is complex. But you’re correct- she most certainly shouldn’t be blamed for the act of abuse.

[@suzanncruikshank6442]

I agree, sadly. The "uncle" was not related, which helps a bit. Matt, you are so awesome. God bless you. So sorry for your losses.

[@lobsters12111]

@@suzanncruikshank6442 helps a bit how exactly? Explain to me how much better it is that the guy wasn’t blood related to the kid he abused?

[@KK-od1do]

Such monsters who take advantage of a young child in midst of a personal tragedy must not be spared ! The harshest of harsh punishment must be given to such sick weirdos.

[@Rollimggiant]

That is how predators opperate and select the victim. Unfortunately I know from my own SA in childhood

[@Kushguy10121]

Matt, I’m sure your father is looking down and watching this. He loves you and loves with you forever. I’m sorry bro for your loss. Keep your head up buddy

[@westaussie965]

No. That’s not what happens. That is not written anywhere in the bible that it happens like that😉

[@lynda4661]

Yes your dad is always with you very close looking out for you love never dies .. you will see him again when it’s your time Never mind bible thumpers there is definitely life after death I know this for a fact Matt my son passed almost 9myears ago ,, I’ve seen him felt him.. my husband also .. I even have pictures Bless you and love sent to you ❤️your mom ❤️and Dad ❤️🙏🥰🌹

[@KesiAndre]

I can’t imagine raising 4 men by myself while dealing with grief! God bless his mother and the trauma he suffered in addition ugh I hope he is mentally ok

[@justbecause9645]

7 million dollar check helps.

[@sharonmchugh7730]

I wish him continued success in his career & sobriety. His predator should not have been let out

[@michellemahar9030]

It takes so much to share such a personal story. You have been through so much. Your honesty and willingness to speak about experiences means so much. I truly wish you peace and healing and that every day you are filled with all the love and support you deserve.

[@davidgahan-ks5jh]

For him is therapeutical to say all this

[@michellemahar9030]

@@davidgahan-ks5jh it can still be hard to do it. I have PTSD. Sharing helps, but it is hard to share.

[@minaelliott664]

Phenomenal young man. Your story. Your father’s story. We will never forget. ❤️

[@leaheames8995]

Thank you for sharing your story, Matt! I’m so sorry that monster took advantage of you at such a devastatingly vulnerable time. Your mother did an incredible job obviously. I will be purchasing your book and I wish you all the best in your chosen career!

[@elizabethmccready]

It's so interesting the number of people who passed that day that had a vision or premonition of some kind before the attacks. I'm glad Matt is finding healing though and hope he continues to find that. I was around his age when this happened and I can't imagine what he went through.

[@angelaforshey2224]

A month before 911 i jad a dream i was grocery shopping in a very tall building..way up on one of top floors..i looked out the window and there was a huge fireball ..and then people were screaming because they saw people on fire falling to their death..i was so glad i called my mother the next day to share my dream...The morning of sept 11th she called me in disbelief..she said you dreamt this!! Crazy

[@AroundSun]

I was on top of the WTC the Sunday before that Tuesday. Me and my dad were on the observation deck and ate at windows on the world restaurant. He said something along the lines of imagine a plane coming in and hitting this, or how it hasn't happened, etc. Also, they used to sell photos where you could be superimposed jumping and falling off the WTC. I imagine they ended that.

[@bunnykinssmile]

@@AroundSundid they really, that’s crazy. I guess was innocent fun back then. No1 could have predicted people being actually forced to jump. Anyone that brought one of those pics I can imagine it being a haunting thing to look at of them selves falling. Glad your safe. Must be frightening to imagine how close to that day you where there

[@sockmonkey5266]

@@angelaforshey2224shut uo

[@alisonnoble7535]

Matt, you are so brave. You’re an amazing young man.

[@TheMelamia]

This breaks my heart. I wish Matt all the best in life. 😢

[@AntonandSinan]

This man is so brave. What a difficult story.

[@carolinegallegos_]

I’ve heard sooooo many stories about people who died in 9/11 having started to prepare so their own deaths the weeks prior. Like randomly making wills, their own funeral preparations, speaking to family as if they’d be dying soon even though there was know known reason for them to be doing so. A few stories like that could be a coincidence but I think I’ve heard stories from the families of like 25-30 9/11 victims talking about their family member’s strange behavior in preparing for their own death right before 9/11.

[@andrew5184]

That may be true, but it is of no comfort.

[@lobsters12111]

Lots of problems in your statement. One - 46 percent of people have written wills, so to say “30 of the 50,000 people who worked daily in those buildings couldn’t have possibly recently done or edited one is asinine. Two- what you’re saying not only implies that the attack was staged but that they would really kill these people, but also that these people would be perfectly fine with that AND not tell a single other person. Just happily get ready for work to go get blown up by a plane. Makes no sense whatsoever.

[@JungleFeversome]

@@lobsters12111 you need to calm down sir. Not everything is black and white. It means no such thing. Maybe they just had a premonition.

[@lobsters12111]

@@JungleFeversome Makes even less sense than the first comment

[@NoNameToYou]

@@lobsters12111I bet you’re real fun at dinner parties 🙄

[@CandiceGoddard]

The story about the fly makes so much sense to me. The fact that you noticed it and it gave the sign you needed is wonderful.

[@Rollimggiant]

Perfect example of how the death of one person changed the course of this boys life . Now imagine all the heart ache involved in the 3000 others out there . All had families loved ones and the loss effects so many.

[@kathleenwindsor5679]

Matt, i am blown away by your strength. You are a credit to your father! You are an inspiration to others who have gone through tragic things. I am looking forward to purchasing your book. You have a real gift for speaking, I imagine that must be carried over into your writing also. God bless you and stay strong! ❤️

[@Williy_Nilly]

I think the timeline of when and where they found him is critical. If he had jumped he would have been found toward the end of the debris salvaging because he would have been buried under the entire building. He was at the upper floors and they found him relatively early so personally I don't believe your father jumped. Thank you for sharing. 💪

[@tiffprendergast]

Same

[@paulabrown6840]

The readings of the names is also important to America IMO. You are a wonderful tribute to the father who raised you Matt. It’s almost the 20th Anniversary of that terrible day...I hope you and your family know that People of this country care so much! 🙏🦋

[@Sweetie_PieLo]

He’s precious, love how honest he is.

[@klafrance123]

My heart breaks for you. This mom hugs you and wishes you all the love in the world.

[@andyblank4647]

Your dad has to be soooo proud of you ❤️😇. As a parent I am so unbelievably sorry that you had such an evil man take advantage of you and your family’s tragedy. Your strength is unbelievable and I wish you an amazing and blessed life moving forward. God bless your father’s soul and your family’s hearts 🙏😇❤️

[@barbarajoseph5897]

You Sir are a “ Hero” your honesty set’s you apart,you make God smile and your Dad! God Bless You, keep telling your story.

[@sandrametcalfe7483]

Thank you Matt for sharing your story. I’m so sorry for your loss. We will never forget 9/11. May God bless you and your family.

[@juliamarin4896]

Wow. You've been through Sooo Much. But congratulations, you made it. I am sorry that you lost your dad on 9/11 too. I had very similar experiences with a bird for quite a while after my soul mate passed away...I believe you.

[@shivinunitholi2493]

One of the most spiritually touching 9/11 stories. More power to you, Matt.

[@dariahughes5564]

This is a very sick kid, bless his HEART!! Sexual abuse on top of just losing his dad, and that's what the "uncle" used as bait? There are some seriously dangerously, sick, twists out there. I hope kid is still getting therapy, not just when he was little. He needs it for life, possibly. Glad u sobered up. Amazing, sad..tragic. rip to ur daddy

[@catmeow333]

Thank you Matt. Sincerely.

[@momsmushroomsjodyfoster5786]

For some reason, and I don’t even have an explanation. I too, was compelled to watch read and listen to every last shred of information about 9/11. Many of us across the country and the world became united and solidified in our mourning and sorrow. Going forward I had to be careful not to develop prejudice or fear towards certain people groups. Some thing I had never dealt with in my life before that. I realized the root was fear. And I had to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. We are all individuals after all. I so pray you will find the peace and comfort you deserve.❤

[@Booz23]

Thank you so much Matt, sharing our traumas helps others. You are very brave and resilient, you should be proud of yourself.

[@rolltide_rhiannon]

Matt, if you are reading this, I wish you nothing but the best in your life! I too survived sexual molestation. You're very mature and intelligent and it's really amazing you are as young as you are. Best wishes.

[@franlooving4203]

You are such a wise young man & a strong young man. I hope you love all that you have learned in your young life. I am so impressed with how much you have learned. You are very kind to share with us. Thank you & take care!

[@californiahiker9616]

Thank you Matt for sharing your story! That could not have been easy. It’s inspiration for other survivors as well as to kids who have been similarly abused. I am really sorry you went through all you did. I lost my mom at age 9. So I know how difficult it is to grow up only one parent. Best wishes to you!

[@jenkp8179]

I’m so glad a family member was asked questions about how the anniversaries are handled, things such as the tribute in lights and the reading of the names. I always wondered and prayed they were ok with it all.

[@tenzn527]

So crazy how he got his warning through dreams 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼thank you for sharing your story .

[@GD-cr5um]

What an evil uncle to take advantage during of ones devastation. God bless these hero's who have risen

[@HP-fn4bo]

So much respect for this man for being so honest about the content he was consuming in an obsessive way. That’s a difficult thing to talk about because we’re all so weird but try not to let others see it. I’d like to put his abuser on an island by himself in the middle of the ocean. And I’m dying to know what kind of fly he’s talking about!

[@b0borden437]

What a brave man you are Matt, your father would be so proud. I too am catholic but don't attend mass regularly but I am very spiritual and I 100% believe in signs as I've turned to God during difficult times. At one point after being unemployed after the recession, I started attending mass every morning and then went on Sun for years. I hope you have a good step-dad, you have shown remarkable courage dealing with such a tragedy at a young age. I will get your book, I'm sure it talks about your dad and the man he was. I just want to add that I had a weird obsession with the jumpers and idk why, I didn't know anyone who was killed and I live in S. Jersey, I think it's just incomprehensible that so many people knew there was no hope. We had never seen anything like this before.....ever. Thank you for sharing your story and helping others through your talks. I wish you much success and love.

[@deyannaf4380]

I am so very sorry!!! Thank you so much for telling us your story!!! You are a very strong young man. I pray for you and healing for you and your family so much!!!

[@dianahofstetter1057]

Thank you

[@janellen4278]

You are brave beyond words. God bless you!

[@lisamarieashby2523]

I am so sorry for your loss! I am even more sorry that you had a family member who took advantage of you for their own evil designs. I pray you find some peace in your life. Be thankful that you had a father with whom you had a relationship. Never had that personally. I hope you feel your father's spirit with you! I believe he is watching over you still.

[@miatalamasca3723]

The uncle had no idea how the father died. He used false information in order to lure this poor boy in. The fact that he got 4 years just burns me up. He should be exposed. He should have been exposed, his full name in this video.

[@cmellowdee]

Thank you for your bravery, Matt. 🙏🏽

[@qtgonewild]

love this kid and his voice. will get the audio book

[@shelleyb9848]

Matt, I saw your interview about your life after your dads death on 9/11 was taped 2 years ago. So I'm hoping you are still on that very good path in life you have chosen! You are very strong and very brave because you've had to deal with so much grief, sadness, and addiction in your life, more than a lot of people have in a lifetime! I believe in signs from our deceased loved ones too. I had a very similiar experience as you did after my mother passed, except my sign was a butterfly! I'm going to look for your book Matt and I can't wait to read it. You went from an innocent little boy to an incredible young man. I bet your dad is smiling down on you, and is with you everyday, like my mother is with me always. God bless you Matt!! Thank you for sharing your story with us. You have really been an inspiration to all of us facing troubled times in our lives. ❤❤❤❤

[@kellygirl4996]

thanks so much for your story, so sorry for your loss and all you have been through. i’m an addiction nurse and it takes such a strong person to overcome addiction!

[@lizjones7220]

Beautiful brave son & father...🦟

[@penelopesworld2023]

Thank you for sharing your story Matt. I struggled w/ addiction & sexual abuse also. I lost my Dad 2 yrs ago. I was 38 & I have realized it doesn't matter how old you are when you lose a parent or loved one grief is a hard emotional roller-coaster. Our stories are similar but very different. Just know you are never alone. You are always in my Prayers ❤

[@iangreenberg5101]

I can only imagine. Sorry u had to go through this man.

[@taminorman1673]

It’s good you found out that your father didn’t jump but even if someone had to jump it’s absolutely through no fault of their own. They weren’t given a choice. Either burn to death or jump. As I suffer from asthma and claustrophobia I know what I would have done. I’m can’t understand how some people are logically thinking about the jumpers.

[@dachshund83]

What a lovely man! Best of luck to him ❤

[@sandystarfish7645]

Thank you for sharing your story, my mom passed when I was 12 and it had a ripple effect on me similiar to what you went through..God bless you, I am so glad that the good Lord guided you back, he did the same for me.

[@DougJosephDMJ]

One of the most amazing stories I have heard in this series. Best of luck to you and your family.

[@JBoo]

Matt I'm so sorry for your loss. Your loss is very different as every year it gets brought up again. Your father is extremely proud of you and watching over you.

[@Bellasie1]

Just 4 years in prison for this "uncle", and all the suffering he and his family including his father must have endured in the balance. How could he have faith in any kind of divine justice? Impressive testimony of a very courageous man. I want to read his book.

[@shaniaday2739]

God Bless You Matt 🙏🏼.

[@donw3912]

Hearing a story of a kid from 9/11 is good to hear. I am so glad that things have come full circle in a way and you are doing well. The spiritual things you said mean alot to me as it confirms something I have always believed in since I was a kid. I am going to go find that book. I hope that life has brought you peace and happiness and everything good in life you seek Matt. Your dad would be as proud as proud can be in seeing you today.

[@thenanlife1141]

We will never ever forget 9/11

[@MrsC48]

Matt's book "Sway" is one of those books you can't put down. Highly recommend.

[@jeanniebell9493]

Such a brave, strong, inspiring young man. ! Continued blessings always !

[@karenweaver7574]

Thank you for your story, Matt you are a brave young man. I am going to buy your book. Take care of yourself.

[@KnewEyes1990]

Thank you for sharing your story Matt! Know its not an easy thing to do and you are right its very important that the names of all the Victims get read out loud so that the world remembers what happened that day and that all those people were somebody's loved ones not just a number on the news! Take care and will be thinking of you and your family ♡ from Newfoundland, Canada 🇨🇦.

[@salfromoregon4369]

Great interview and story. Very articulate and insightful young man. I wish him all the best in the future.

[@luv2luv720]

What a rough several years after 9/11 for this man. I'm glad he came out on the other side!

[@denisejaydub]

Thank you for sharing. I’m so sorry for all you e endured 💔

[@amiesorrells9331]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. You have shown so much strength and may help someone else. I admire you tremendously.

[@JoannJones-ct9qe]

Such a courageous young man. I am sure his dad would be so proud x

[@jennylasseter9162]

Extremely powerful. Thank you for your honesty, and sharing such incredibly personal experiences.

[@purplebunny7728]

Thank you for sharing. God bless you

[@iangreenberg5101]

It's on audible. Going to listen tomorrow

[@beccarmagie]

Thank you for sharing your story, i wish you healing and love and light and everything good. Im so sorry you were harmed especially in such a vulnerable time.

[@annasibert2958]

Wow such an amazing story of strength. You’re incredible Matt. So few people can do what you have done. I’m a recovering addict as well, I know how difficult it can be. I haven’t been through half of what you have so I can’t imagine the struggle you’ve faced. Be proud of yourself and realize what a blessing you are. Your dad would be so proud . Your story can touch so many who have faced similar situations in life. It was amazing to hear your story thank you for sharing 💙

[@Mizzlenum]

Thanks for sharing your story... I'm crying mostly of joy because you did overcome this situation which should have never happened.

[@SyedSaifAbbasNaqvi]

You have a lot of strength Matt. God bless you. 🎉

[@ssoozee]

These stories are so touching. And this interviewer is a wonderful.

[@nancydean2779]

THANKYOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY. IM LISTENING FROM HERE FROM SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA "Long Beach". Your Story and your Dad will never be forgotten.. and all the other stories of 9/11

[@robbieogle8622]

Its weird how his dead relatives came to visit him in a dream/vision. Its like he knew it was signaling he was going to die.

[@MK-kq1lm]

Thank you!!

[@AndriaBieberDesigns]

You’re dad loves you and wants the best for you ❤ so sorry for your loss

[@user-xi7gz6sz4w]

What a wonderful young man. I LOVE the fly story!

[@stevendonohoe2150]

Mature young man. God bless you!

[@sanginguy1289]

Thanks for sharing your heartfelt story. You are such a hero!! 911 will always be engraved in the hearts and minds in America especially the families of those that we lost. 🙏🏽

[@janellesilbs328]

Powerful story!! So glad your well now. Blessings!

[@mrlaw711]

My admiration and respect for Matt - getting his life focused in the right direct. many hurdles to have overcome. He's a very bright man. I wish him much success.

[@marymarmande8446]

It makes my ❤ smile when people see the sign that our loved ones send from heaven it's so real. We have to make sure the laws change so the judges can make sure these child predators have life sentences because we all now know nothing will change them. Sending love and prayers to this precious young man and his family

[@Krizz139]

Matt I wish you all the very best for the future and I hope that one day you will find inner peace and happiness. You're extremely strong and courageous. You've had an incredibly traumatic childhood, my heart breaks in two but I've no doubt that your Dad is with you in spirit. Wishing you a lot of success with your book (which I will be buying) and with your continued sobriety. As to your abuser, Karma will eventually get him.

[@pjames1553]

I'm proud of you for speaking about this so strong

[@brooklynsmomma88]

Matt you are so strong I'm very proud of you for overcoming addiction you and I both have that in common as well as the child S.A . I I'm from Ohio so I didn't have anyone that I know involved in 911 I just wanted to tell Matt that I'm very proud of him for coming forward and I feel like his father is as well. God bless you and your family

[@tamay101]

Wow what a story. God bless you.

[@jagoehring]

Your father must be so proud of you! I'm sure he is watching over you. God bless!

[@chezzachezza7325]

Lots of love from Australia 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺 OMG never forget that night ( Australian time )

[@wendyworf1049]

God Bless you Matt and your family. What you have been through is beyond my imagination. God Bless your Dad who is watching over you. May you find peace xx

[@Afterburner]

So many of the victims had pre-death dreams and visitations... This was such a sad story, but he knew something was coming...

[@terrimathis9197]

❤❤❤ I think you are amazing! God bless you 🙏

[@JULIEFRENCH0906]

God bless you. You are an incredible person.

[@kinetickutz]

Ive never heard that about looking for signs after a death. That is very powerful and smart actually. Cause I have heard people talk about signs here and there but I never thought that it could happen for everyone that has lost someone close. My older brother passed and we were cool when he was alive but since he passed, everytime I dream about him, we are always fighting and punching each other. I have no idea why?

[@khazana24]

I think Matt is extremely mature and articulate. And I can understand his compulsion at that young age to want to hunt down a picture of his dad and to find out exactly what happened. It’s strange how differently we all react to tragedies and how much our inherent personality drives this (his experience vs his siblings). Would love to get his book - something tells me he’ll be a great writer.

[@eliamiller9816]

Matt you are a great speaker!!

[@mayagame]

Just despicable of his "uncle" to take adventage of him after what he went through! :( I mean its despicable always but here is specially mean and sick! :(

[@jnkoa33]

God bless you brother