WGOLV.COM A large number of mysterious drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks, sparking speculation and concern over who sent them and why.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have emphasized that the drones do not seem to pose a threat to public safety. However, many state and municipal lawmakers have still called for stricter regulations on who can operate these unmanned aircraft.
The FBI is one of several agencies investigating the matter and has requested residents to provide videos, photos, and any other information they might have regarding the drones.
Video screen capture - AP
What has been seen in New Jersey?
As of November, dozens of witnesses have reported seeing drones in New Jersey.
Initially, drones were observed flying along the picturesque Raritan River, which supplies the Round Valley Reservoir, the largest aquifer in the state, located approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of New York City.
Reports of sightings soon emerged across the state, including areas near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing site, and over President-elect Donald Trump's golf course in Bedminster.
The drones have also been seen recently in coastal regions.
U.S. Rep. Chris Smith said that a Coast Guard commanding officer informed him that a dozen drones closely trailed a Coast Guard lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park in Ocean County over the weekend.
Homeland Security revealed new information about the mysterious drone flights over New Jersey.
Are these drones dangerous?
Governor Murphy stated that the aircraft are not a threat, but he has not given any details to back up this claim.
Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, briefed by the Department of Homeland Security, said that the drones reported have been as large as 6 feet in diameter and occasionally fly with their lights off.
These drones are significantly larger than those usually operated by hobbyists, and she noted they seem to evade detection by conventional means like helicopters and radio.
Authorities suggest that some observers might be mistaking planes or helicopters for drones.
Who sent the drones?
Authorities say they do not know who is behind the drones.
The FBI, Homeland Security, and state police are investigating the sightings.
Authorities say they don't know if it is one drone that has been spotted many times or if there are multiple aircraft being flown in a coordinated effort.
Online speculation has been intense, with some worried that the drone or drones might be involved in a malicious scheme by foreign agents. However, officials emphasize that current state and federal investigations have uncovered no evidence to back up these concerns.
Two Republican Jersey Shore-area congressmen, Smith and U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, have called on the military to shoot down the drones, citing safety concerns.
The Pentagon insists the drones do not represent a threat from abroad.
Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated on Thursday that, after discussions with the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Council, the military's initial evaluation that the drones are not foreign in origin is still the same.
Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said Wednesday that the aircraft are not drones belonging to the U.S. military.
Are drones permitted in New Jersey?
Yes - In New Jersey, flying drones for both recreational and commercial purposes is legal, but it must comply with local regulations and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flight restrictions.
Operators are required to have FAA certification.
Have drones been spotted anywhere else?
Yes - Sightings have been reported in neighboring states - New York and Pennsylvania, according to the Associated Press.
One individual sent in a video of what she described as drones over a home in Whitehall Wednesday evening. She and others told us that they make noise. A few other people said they saw drones in the Lehigh Valley area.
Drones were observed in the U.K. last month as well. According to the AP, the U.S. Air Force reported that several small unmanned aircraft were identified near four bases in England utilized by American forces.
Monroe County
Superfood Blend + Multivitamin Complex
Vitalité is a powerful, daily supplement that works at the cellular level to deliver the essential nutrients your body needs to perform at its best every day. Combining crucial vitamins and minerals with proprietary superfood, digestive care, and antioxidant-packed berry blends, Vitalité is a nutritive powerhouse and a vital step in your daily self-care regimen.
Vitalite'
Each donation means a lot!! WGOLV is all self-funded - a mom-run, independent news publication in the Lehigh Valley that gives back and helps the community - Thank you!
Donate to WGOLV - $1
WGOLV will come out and "Showcase your business to the Lehigh Valley" - educate, inform, show the Lehigh Valley what you offer - They are wonderful and a great way to advertise your business!! We will also do photos and videos while we are there - We can also interview you. Lots we can do! People love these and they can also interact which they love! These are great for any type of business.
Showcase your business
Book Now