158. Smells Like A Phantom At Ground Zero - The Evaporation Of Sneha Philip

The recent anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001 was once again a moment to pause and reflect on the awful events of that day, and the heroism of so many people from all walks of life who helped remind us all of the humanity we all share.  So many souls were lost that day – the official count is nearly 3,000 – and even after all this time there are so many missing who have never been physically identified – only presumed – as victims of the attack.  In this episode, Melissa tells the story of one of those presumed, but never proven, to have died as a result of the 9/11 attacks – and the mystery and intrigue that still surrounds her disappearance.  Sneha Anne Philip was a physician, living with her husband Ron Lieberman (also a practicing physician) in lower Manhattan just a few blocks away from what came to be known on Ground Zero.  On the day before the attacks – Monday September 10, 2001 – Ron left for work and left Sneha – who had the day off – at the apartment, where she planned to contact her mother in India for a chat and then run errands around town.  That was the last Ron saw of her.  Sneha was later seen that day – September 10 – caught on security video shopping at a clothing and home goods store.  Credit card records later revealed she bought a set of sheets, three pairs of shoes and some lingerie.  None of those items have ever turned up.  The mystery deepens when the details of Sneha’s personal life (both known and supposed) become clearer.  Was she killed sometime on the 10th?  Did she spend the night somewhere unknown with an unknown friend or lover?  Did she witness the attack on the WTC on her way home on the morning of the 11th and run to help people and lose her life doing so?  Here’s a case so filled with questions that you, our beloved Tip-Sters, may well feel compelled to do some research on your own.  You won’t soon forget this story – and you will definitely be hooked on the mystery.