For weeks, mysterious drone sightings across New Jersey have raised alarm bells among residents, local officials, and federal agencies. Despite ongoing investigations, the origin and purpose of these drones remain unclear, fueling anxiety and frustration statewide.
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A Growing Mystery
The sightings, which began on November 18 near Morris County, have reportedly involved drones up to six feet in diameter, operating primarily during nighttime hours. These drones, often spotted in clusters and displaying flashing lights, evade radar detection and police helicopters by switching off their lights when approached.
Belleville Township Mayor Michael Melham highlighted the drones’ unusual behavior, suggesting they might possess evasion technology or emit no detectable frequencies. “They appear to be surveilling critical infrastructure,” Melham warned, adding that their activity has been concentrated near sensitive sites like reservoirs, military facilities, and government properties.
West Milford Mayor Michele Dale reported seeing 60 drones hovering above local reservoirs, amplifying concerns about their intentions.
Public and Official Reactions
New Jersey residents have voiced their unease. Travel content creator Katie Caf described spotting drones “zigzagging” across the sky, saying their unusual size and movement made them “spooky.”
State Assemblyman Brian Bergen echoed these fears, stating, “We are literally being invaded by drones. We have no idea who is doing it or where they’re coming from.”
Despite these concerns, Governor Phil Murphy has reassured the public that there’s no immediate threat to safety. “Based on everything we know, there is no public safety risk,” Murphy said, though he acknowledged the growing frustration over the lack of answers.
Speculations and Denials
Some federal lawmakers, including Representative Jeff Van Drew, have speculated about foreign involvement, even suggesting the drones could be linked to an Iranian “mothership” stationed off the U.S. East Coast. However, the Pentagon dismissed this claim, with Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh categorically denying any such connections.
Meanwhile, U.S. Northern Command and the Department of Homeland Security stated they had not been asked to assist in the investigation, despite concerns about national security implications.
Investigations Underway
The FBI is leading the investigation, working with the New Jersey State Police and the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. Federal agencies have ruled out links to local, state, or federal government operations.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office has called on Governor Murphy to declare a state of emergency and impose a temporary ban on recreational drone use at night. Meanwhile, some officials, including State Senator Jon Bramnick, have urged the Department of Defense to step in, arguing that the situation exceeds state capabilities.
“The technology to monitor these drones is beyond state officials. The Department of Defense needs to act,” Bramnick stated.
Heightened Security Concerns
Sightings near critical sites, such as the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, prompted the FAA to issue temporary flight restrictions. Lawmakers fear the drones could be testing defenses or gathering intelligence on key infrastructure.
“This is no joke,” Bramnick said. “It’s unsettling that citizens are the first to notice drones the size of SUVs without military intervention.”
Public Call for Transparency
Local leaders, including Melham and State Assemblymember Dawn Fantasia, have demanded greater transparency from federal agencies. U.S. Senator Cory Booker also pressed for answers, writing to the FBI and Department of Homeland Security about the “growing sense of uncertainty and urgency across the state.”
The FBI Newark field office has urged the public to report any drone sightings, emphasizing that the investigation remains active.
Next Steps
As investigations continue, officials and residents alike are left with more questions than answers. The drones’ coordinated movements, advanced capabilities, and proximity to critical infrastructure suggest a calculated effort, but their origins and purpose remain a mystery.
For now, New Jersey’s skies remain under watch, with federal and state agencies racing to uncover the truth behind the elusive drones.
