Anatomy of Murder: NYC's Only Murder on 9/11 (Henry Siwiak)
Host/Authors: Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger
Release Date: October 8, 2024

Introduction

In the poignant episode titled "NYC's Only Murder on 9/11 (Henry Siwiak)", hosts Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger delve into a tragic and often overlooked murder case that coincided with one of the most devastating events in American history. This episode not only recounts the layers of Henrik Chaviak's untimely death but also explores the complexities faced by investigators during the chaotic aftermath of September 11, 2001.

Background of Henrik Chaviak

Henrik Chaviak, an immigrant from Kielce, Poland, had moved to the United States seeking a better life. Described by his sister Lutzina as a "very smart boy" with a passion for science, Henrik worked diligently to support his family back in Poland. His dream was to build a home for his loved ones, a vision that ultimately led him to the U.S. despite the challenges he faced.

Notable Quote:
Lutzina Chaviak reminisces, "He was also very handsome... He liked science." [07:03]

Events on September 11, 2001

While the world was grappling with the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Henrik was navigating the complexities of a new life in Brooklyn. On the morning of 9/11, amidst the chaos, Henrik was preparing for his second job at a supermarket in Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed Stuy), Brooklyn.

Notable Quote:
Scott Weinberger recounts his personal experience: "I was diverted by a pager message... within a flash, the second plane hit the South Tower." [17:06]

The Murder Case

On the night of September 11, Henrik had just begun his shift at the supermarket when he was tragically shot multiple times in the chest at the intersection of Decatur and Albany in Bed Stuy. This incident remained separate from the terrorist attacks but was overshadowed by the overwhelming focus on the events at the World Trade Center.

Notable Quote:
Detective Tommy Joyce describes the scene: "A plane just hit the World Trade Center." [16:26]

Investigation Challenges

The investigation into Henrik's murder faced unprecedented hurdles. With the NYPD's resources stretched thin due to the terrorist attacks, the homicide investigation suffered from a lack of personnel and attention. Typically, a homicide scene would have multiple detectives and forensic experts, but on that fateful day, only a single detective attended to Henrik's case.

Notable Quote:
Cyndi Lauper emphasizes the impact: "Everything that happened on that day really just made this case that much more difficult to solve." [05:18]

Family Impact

Henrik's death left his family in Poland shattered and seeking answers. His wife, Eva, struggled to inform their young son, Adam, about his father's murder. The Chaviak family's attempts to involve the Polish embassy yielded no assistance, leaving them to grapple with their loss independently.

Notable Quote:
Lutzina Chaviak shares her anguish: "My dream was completely different. But after my brother died, I lost motivation." [54:25]

Detective Insights

Former NYPD Detectives Mike Prate and Tommy Joyce provide an insider's perspective on the investigation's difficulties. They highlight the challenges of canvassing a high-crime area during a city-wide emergency, the reluctance of community members to come forward, and the limitations imposed by the ongoing 9/11 crisis.

Notable Quotes:
Mike Prate reflects, "We just couldn't believe it. Here we are, probably the worst day law enforcement has ever seen." [16:13]
Tommy Joyce adds, "How do you explain that to a family?" [31:33]

Conclusion and Call to Action

As the episode approaches the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the hosts and detectives underscore the unresolved nature of Henrik's case. They call upon listeners to assist in solving this cold case, emphasizing that every piece of information, no matter how small, could bring the family the closure they desperately seek.

Notable Quote:
Scott Weinberger urges, "You just never know. It can sometimes be just taking one." [58:10]

Reflections

This episode of Anatomy of Murder serves as a haunting reminder of how personal tragedies can be eclipsed by national disasters. Through heartfelt interviews and meticulous examination, Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger honor Henrik Chaviak's memory while highlighting the systemic issues that hindered the pursuit of justice on that tumultuous day.

Final Thoughts

The intertwined narratives of Henrik's life and death with the events of 9/11 offer a unique lens through which to examine the broader impacts of tragedy and loss. This episode not only seeks to shed light on an individual’s story but also advocates for unwavering persistence in seeking truth and closure for all victims of violence.

For those moved by Henrik’s story and eager to assist, visit the Anatomy of Murder website for more information on how you can contribute to solving this enduring mystery.