Mysterious drones have been spotted flying over New Jersey for several weeks, raising concerns among residents and prompting investigations by state and federal officials. Governor Phil Murphy recently revealed that these sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles are capable of “going dark” when they detect they are being observed. This statement comes amidst mounting pressure from lawmakers seeking clarity on the sightings, which first began in Morris County in mid-November.
Residents have expressed their frustration due to the lack of information surrounding these drone activities. Murphy acknowledged their concerns, emphasizing that the state is taking the matter very seriously. The governor noted that collaboration with federal agencies has been positive, but he is urging for increased cooperation to get to the bottom of these sightings.
The drones have been reported flying over critical infrastructure, including reservoirs, power lines, and railroads. Some witnesses described seeing groups of drones emitting a humming noise and hovering above residential areas and roadways. This unusual activity has led the FBI to impose flight restrictions around certain areas, including military sites and properties associated with high-profile individuals.
Despite the growing anxiety, Murphy reassured the public that officials do not view the drones as a threat to public safety. He expressed his own frustration over the limited information available, stating, “It’s really frustrating that we don’t have more answers.” On the previous Sunday alone, Murphy reported 49 sightings but cautioned that some may have been misidentified or duplicated.
Moreover, rumors circulating about crashed drones have been largely dismissed as unfounded; Murphy specified that no nefarious drones have been reported downed in the area. Instead, some of these reports turned out to be harmless toy drones.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting any sightings to the FBI or local law enforcement as the investigation continues. Murphy is optimistic that answers will come soon, and he remains committed to keeping the public informed.
Overall, while the drone sightings have created a sense of unease, the situation highlights the community’s vigilance and the proactive efforts from both state and federal agencies to address public concerns. This can serve as a reminder of the importance of communication and collaboration in ensuring safety and security in our communities.