Suspected Drone Sightings Across New Jersey Under Investigation
New Jersey officials are taking recent reports of mysterious drone sightings across the state “seriously,” with multiple incidents reported in 10 counties, including near the state’s largest reservoir. The reason for the drones’ presence is unclear, with no apparent connections to similar sightings in other areas.
One drone was spotted hovering near the Round Valley Reservoir in Hunterdon County, while another was reported near the county’s 911 Center in Flemington. The sightings have raised concerns, with Hunterdon County Commissioner John Lanza noting that some drones have been seen hovering over houses for hours at a time, while others have been reported in groups of up to eight.
The FAA has confirmed an “unusual drone” was spotted in the skies of northern and central New Jersey in November, and since then, drones have been reported regularly across the state, including on Staten Island.
Borough President Vito Fossella described the sightings as “odd and quite bizarre” and called for an explanation on who is flying the drones, where they are coming from, and their purpose. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis has requested temporary restrictions on drone flights in the area, which were imposed by the FAA following the New Jersey sightings.
An FBI-led investigation into the matter has been launched, with Governor Phil Murphy convening a briefing with state and federal Homeland Security officials, including Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Murphy assured that “there is no known threat to the public at this time.”