Craig Melvin says he feels safe after Today studio intrusion
The Today anchor addressed a restricted-area encounter at 30 Rockefeller Plaza after an alleged intruder was arrested on hate crime charges.
By Poppy Nakagawa · Culture Writer
2 min read
Craig Melvin was back in public view Friday morning after a man allegedly got into a restricted area at NBC’s 30 Rockefeller Plaza and confronted him the day before, according to TMZ.
The Today anchor told TMZ outside the building that he feels safe after the encounter. Asked about the incident, Melvin described the moment as part of a “wacky” world and said there is “a lot of wacky out there.”
TMZ reported that the incident happened Thursday after a man identified as Andrew Truelove got past security at the studio. According to the outlet, Truelove was looking for Al Roker before turning his attention to Melvin in a restricted area.
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that Truelove allegedly lunged at Melvin and used an anti-Black slur during the confrontation. TMZ reported that Melvin told police after the incident that the encounter made him fear for his safety.
By Friday, Melvin appeared calm as he left 30 Rockefeller Plaza, TMZ reported. He also spoke about the incident during Friday’s Today broadcast on NBC, saying he was grateful the man had been arrested and that no one was hurt.
Court order bars contact with Melvin and Roker
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that a court order now blocks Truelove from going near Melvin and Roker, including at NBC and at their homes.
According to TMZ, Truelove remained in custody at Rikers Island on $20,000 bail at the time of the report. The outlet said he is facing multiple hate crime charges tied to the alleged studio intrusion.
TMZ did not report a response from Truelove to the allegations. The charges remain allegations unless and until proven in court.
The case has put attention back on security at a building that is one of the most recognizable television hubs in New York. The Today studio sits inside 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where live broadcasts regularly bring anchors, guests and crowds into close proximity.
Melvin’s message Friday was brief and steady: he was not injured, he feels safe, and he is thankful the confrontation ended with an arrest.
This story draws on original reporting from TMZ.