FBI launches investigation into drone formations over New Jersey skies
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For weeks, residents have reported these drone activities, sparking questions about their origin and purpose.
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A drone flying over New York City (AP)
The FBI has initiated an investigation into the repeated sightings of mysterious drones flying in formations over northern New Jersey.
For weeks, residents have reported these unusual drone activities, sparking questions about their origin and purpose. Authorities are asking the public for any information that could aid in the investigation, as local reactions vary from curiosity to concern.
“Car-sized drones” have reportedly just been spotted over President Trump’s private residence in Bedminster, NJ 👀
— Matt Wallace (@MattWallace888) December 3, 2024
🎥: @Civil_Disco pic.twitter.com/llL6uGoky2
"We are collaborating with our state and local partners regarding the reported drone activity," said Amy Thoreson, a public affairs specialist with the FBI's Newark Office.
In addition, recent drone sightings have been reported in Warren County, according to William Austin, President of Warren County Community College, who also teaches drone piloting at the institution.
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Morris County authorities initially responded on November 18 to several reports from local residents who claimed to have seen drones flying above. Law enforcement on patrol also reported similar sightings, according to officials.
“Morris County municipal police departments, along with our federal and state law enforcement partners, are aware of this activity, and will continue to coordinate, monitor and investigate the drone activity,” stated a joint release from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Sheriff's Office, the Morris County Police Chief's Association, and the Office of Emergency Management.
The county advisory, issued in response to the numerous drone sightings shared on social media, reassured the public, stating, "There is no known threat to public safety."
Unidentified drones have flooded the skies in NJ. This is a video I took of one pic.twitter.com/agMrZlN1jg
— Jerzy (@JerzyBets) November 19, 2024
“We encourage the public to be mindful that what they read online may not be accurate,” county officials cautioned.
Officials at the 6,400-acre Picatinny Arsenal military research and manufacturing facility in northwest Morris County also acknowledged the "numerous reports" and stated they are collaborating with law enforcement agencies "to obtain more information on the reported activity."
“We remind everyone that it is unlawful to fly [drones] over Picatinny Arsenal or any other federal military installation without prior authorization,” a spokesperson for Picatinny has lately stated.
