The FBI has launched an investigation into mysterious nighttime drone flights over central New Jersey, urging residents to report any sightings.
At a Glance
- FBI investigating unexplained drone activity in central New Jersey since November 18
- Witnesses report clusters of large drones, some as big as small cars
- Public asked to report sightings to FBI via phone or website
- No known threat to public safety, but situation remains mysterious
- FAA restricts drone flights over Picatinny Arsenal and Trump’s Bedminster golf course
FBI Seeks Public Assistance in Drone Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating a series of unexplained nighttime drone flights across central New Jersey. The agency is now reaching out to the public for help in gathering information about these mysterious aerial activities. Residents have reported sightings of drone clusters, some larger than typical hobbyist models, flying over various towns since November 18.
FBI spokesperson Amy J. Thoreson emphasized the importance of community involvement in this investigation. “We’re asking the public to contact us through our 800 line or tips.fbi.gov,” Thoreson said. The bureau has provided multiple channels for citizens to submit their reports, including a dedicated phone number (1-800-CALL-FBI) and a website (tips.fbi.gov).
FBI seeks help in New Jersey mystery drone case. https://t.co/1T62vOVb6d pic.twitter.com/Q4NkfOm6Ry
— njdotcom (@njdotcom) December 4, 2024
Mysterious Flights Raise Concerns
The drone sightings have sparked curiosity and concern among local residents and officials. Reports describe groups of drones, some reportedly as large as small cars, flying in formation over areas along the Raritan River. These observations have led to speculation about the purpose and operators of these unmanned aerial vehicles.
“It’s a complete mystery,” Mark Chiarolanza told NJ.com. This sentiment echoes the feelings of many residents who have witnessed the unusual nighttime activities.
While there is currently no known threat to public safety, the FBI is taking the situation seriously. “As for the threat to public safety, that’s what we are trying to figure out,” Thoreson added, underscoring the agency’s commitment to unraveling the mystery.
Precautionary Measures and Ongoing Investigation
In response to the sightings, the Federal Aviation Administration has implemented temporary restrictions on drone flights over specific areas. These include the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility, and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. The FBI requested these flight restrictions as a precautionary measure.
“The FBI is investigating reports about several mysterious nighttime drone flights that have recently occurred across central New Jersey and has asked the public for help,” the bureau stated. “The flights have raised questions in part because they took place near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.”
Law enforcement agencies across multiple counties, including Morris and Somerset, are aware of the reports and are actively monitoring the situation. The Warren County Prosecutor’s Office is also collaborating with the FBI and other agencies on this issue, demonstrating a coordinated effort to address the unexplained drone activity.
As the investigation continues, authorities remind the public that shooting down drones is illegal under federal law. Instead, they encourage citizens to report any sightings, photos, or videos to the FBI to assist in their ongoing inquiry. The collective effort between law enforcement and the community aims to uncover the truth behind these mysterious flights and ensure the safety and security of New Jersey residents.
