[dylan604]

This is actually the first time I've heard that. Is this urban legend (it is funny as hell), or did it actually happen?

"Two of these pieces bore a vehicle identification number (VIN) that the FBI traced to a rental agency in Jersey City, N.J. The man who rented the truck, Mohammed Salameh, had reported it stolen.

Seeking a refund of his $400 deposit, Salameh repeatedly returned to the Jersey City rental agency where he rented the Ryder van. Working with the rental office personnel, FBI agents arrested Salameh." [0]

So, yes, it really did happen. At least he reported it stolen first. I cannot believe that did not eliminate him as a suspect as that was such a well thought out alibi. Besides, how much was that $400 refund in comparison to the money that Osama surely must have paid him to carry out the deed.

[0]https://www.911memorial.org/connect/blog/1993-world-trade-ce...

[anigbrowl]

I suspect it was less about the $400 than following through on the alibi and hoping to slow the investigation down a little. I'm more surprised they didn't just buy a cheap truck in New Jersey.