Craig Melvin addresses 'Today' security breach after studio intruder
'Today' co-anchor thanks supporters after returning to the show
Craig Melvin broke his silence on Friday after an intruder breached security at NBC's Today studios, telling viewers he was grateful everyone was safe following the frightening incident.
The co-anchor briefly addressed the security scare during the July 17 broadcast, one day after a man allegedly entered an unauthorised area of Studio 1A in New York City.
Melvin reassures viewers on air
Taking a "quick moment" during the programme, Melvin thanked viewers for their concern and confirmed the suspect had been detained.
"You may have heard that unfortunately an intruder made his way into an unauthorized area here at Studio 1A," he said.
"Thankfully he was apprehended quickly, he was placed under arrest, we are cooperating fully with NYPD as they investigate the matter and we are just very happy that everyone is safe."
Laura Jarrett, who was filling in for Savannah Guthrie, responded: "We want to make sure that you're safe."
"Safe and sound," Melvin replied.
Suspect faces hate crime charges
Police said the incident happened on Thursday morning after a man allegedly slipped past studio security and confronted Melvin while reportedly shouting racial slurs. Authorities said the suspect also asked for fellow Today co-anchor Al Roker.
Andrew Truelove, 41, has been charged with hate crime burglary, hate crime menacing, hate crime criminal trespass and harassment. He had not been arraigned at the time of publication.
Roker and NBC respond
Before Friday's broadcast, Roker shared a message of support for his colleague on Instagram.
"A really heartfelt thank you to all who reached out over the last 24 hours to check in on my brother, craigmelvinnbc," he wrote. "We are both okay."
Melvin also thanked supporters in his own Instagram post, writing, "I'm doing just fine. Thanks for reaching out. I'm looking forward to seeing you tomorrow morning on todayshow."
NBC News said it is cooperating with law enforcement while reviewing its security procedures, adding that the safety of employees, guests and staff remains a top priority.