Residents and officials in New Jersey are grappling with the mystery of unidentified drones hovering over the state. Since mid-November, numerous drones have been reported flying at night across at least 10 counties, raising concerns among the public and authorities alike. The sightings have occurred over significant sites, including reservoirs, electric transmission lines, rail stations, police departments, and military bases.
So far, a U.S. Army base in Morris County has reported at least 11 sightings, even after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) restricted drone flights in the area. Additionally, the FAA has placed a ban on drone use over the golf course owned by President-elect Donald Trump in Somerset County. While operating a drone in New Jersey is legal with FAA certification, the surge in sightings has created unease among residents, particularly since many of these drones appear larger than typical hobbyist models.
Governor Phil Murphy has acknowledged the numerous sightings, with reports suggesting as many as 49 drones were seen in one day. While he assures the public that there is no known threat, some local officials remain concerned. The police chief of Florham Park has described the drones’ presence as “nefarious,” and Rep. Chris Smith has labeled them a serious threat. In response to these concerns, Sen. Cory Booker is calling for greater transparency from federal agencies regarding the drone sightings, expressing worries about rising misinformation and fear among the public.
Investigations are ongoing, with the FBI involved and a statement clarifying that these drones do not belong to the Picatinny Arsenal military base. However, many questions remain, including the identity of the drone operators and whether their activity poses any risk.
The situation has incited suggestions for extreme measures, including calls for the military to shoot down the unknown drones. Yet, under federal law, such action is only permissible if an imminent threat is present. The FBI encourages anyone who observes troubling drone activity to report it.
Amid the uncertainty, there remains hope for resolution. Lawmakers are working with federal agencies to gather more information and keep the public informed. This collaborative effort may ultimately provide clarity and restore peace of mind to residents as authorities seek answers about the mysterious drones in the New Jersey skies.