NBC News has terminated a security guard in the wake of a shocking security lapse that allowed an intruder to gain access to the “Today” show studio, according to exclusive information obtained by Page Six.
The alarming incident unfolded when an unauthorized individual, reportedly in search of Al Roker, breached the studio and approached host Craig Melvin last Thursday morning.
Insiders reveal that security footage captured the presence of two guards at the time of the incident. The video reportedly shows one guard stepping away from their post, while the remaining guard failed to notice the intruder slipping into the studio unnoticed.
While it remains unclear which of the two guards was ultimately dismissed, sources indicate that the decision to let him go saddened many of the show’s staff, as he was regarded as a friendly and familiar face within the studio premises.
A representative for the “Today” show has declined to issue any comments on the matter.
Page Six confirmed earlier that the intruder slipped past security at the NBC show’s New York City headquarters and asked Melvin, 47, for Roker, 71, after being unable to find him.
The maniac got as far as the staircase inside the studio when he approached Melvin, but our sources confirmed he did not enter the actual filming studio.
After Melvin called security, the man was detained and arrested.
The New York Police Department confirmed to Page Six that the man, identified as Andrew Truelove, was booked on a slew of charges including hate crime menacing, hate crime burglary, hate crime criminal trespass and harassment charges after being arrested earlier in the day.
The Post confirmed via cops and sources that the 41-year-old man called Melvin the N-word during the incident, which happened right before 9 a.m.
Melvin took to Instagram after the incident to let his fans know he was OK, writing, “Hey everyone. I’ve heard from so many of you over the last few hours. I’m doing just fine. Thanks for reaching out.”
He also shared he was not taking time off after the scary confrontation.
“I’m looking forward to seeing you tomorrow morning on @todayshow,” he wrote.
The “Today” show also shared a statement regarding the incident, noting they were “reviewing the incident and our security protocols.”
“TODAY is cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate the matter,” the statement read. “NBC and TODAY take the safety and security of our employees, talent, staff and guests extremely seriously.”
The program added that they’re “committed to providing a safe and secure environment for everyone who works at and visits our studios.”