FBI Investigates New Jersey Drone Sightings

The FBI’s involvement brings new urgency to the mysterious sightings of drones flying over New Jersey towns at night.

At a Glance

Drones have created concern by flying over northern New Jersey at night.
The sightings include “car-sized” drones, with some appearing over Trump’s private residence.
Both local and FBI investigations are ongoing, with no clear motive yet determined.
Coordination involves federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

Increased Activity Causes Alarm

Drones have been spotted flying at night over northern New Jersey, creating tension among residents. Concerns are especially prevalent due to the sightings over strategic locations, including the Randolph Regional Animal Shelter and Black River Middle School. Despite frequent observations, notably by resident Mike Walsh who reported seeing up to eight drones over these areas, the motives remain unclear. “I don’t know if they’re casing stuff, or worse,” Walsh commented.

In some instances, the drones have been described as being as large as a vehicle. Beyond their size, what unnerves residents is their formation; they appear in groups with one drone staying stationary as others maneuver nearby. This type of organized movement has sparked theories about surveillance, with Amy Thoreson from the FBI confirming, “We are collaborating with our state and local partners regarding the reported drone activity.”

Authority Response and Investigation

Morris Township police launched initial investigations and are now working alongside federal agencies like the FBI to gather more data. Even as federal partners like the Morris County Prosecutors Office and the Sheriff’s Office work in unison, local law enforcement encourages citizens to report any new sightings. “Morris County municipal police departments… will continue to coordinate, monitor, and investigate the drone activity,” affirmed a joint release from these agencies.

These unexpected activities have not only involved law enforcement but also the Picatinny Arsenal—a locale significant for its U.S. Army research labs. This raises potential security questions, as flying unauthorized drones over federal military installations, such as Picatinny, is illegal. Nevertheless, local law enforcement has reassured the public of no known threats to their immediate safety.

The FBI is investigating a series of odd drone sightings in New Jersey that have sparked unease amongst locals. https://t.co/coGnPyJzng

— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) December 3, 2024

Wider Implications and Next Steps

Local frustration grows due to the opaque nature of the situation. Residents and decision-makers alike are in the dark regarding the purpose of these advanced drones. Nancy Read, another local resident, described the scenario by noting, “One is stationery, the others are in and out of the tree line. It’s strange. They’re out there for hours, never during the day.”

The Federal Aviation Administration and regional authorities have yet to offer detailed statements, and continued silence deepens local unease. While collaboration among agencies is ongoing, the timeline for concluding this investigation is uncertain, partly due to additional secretive drone sightings in Warren County and beyond. Local authorities, meanwhile, remain vigilant as they navigate this development.