In brief: It sounds like something straight out of a conspiracy theorist's wild imagination – large, unidentified drones allegedly making mysterious appearances over townships and even sensitive military sites. Yet, that's precisely what has been happening across New Jersey over the past month, sparking concerns and confusion among residents and authorities alike.
Reports began surfacing in early December, originating near the Picatinny Arsenal army facility and even President-elect Donald Trump's Bedminster golf resort. Since then, sightings have surged, with reports coming in from across New Jersey and spilling over into neighboring Pennsylvania and New York.
In true 2024 fashion, nearly everyone has a smartphone at the ready. Numerous videos and photos of the mysterious UAVs have been shared online and with the FBI, which has now launched an investigation into the bizarre situation.
So far, federal authorities maintain that there's no evidence suggesting the drones pose any kind of threat or have links to foreign adversaries.
However, these drones don't seem to be the typical variety flown by videographers or FPV enthusiasts. Several witnesses have described them as "car-sized," measuring up to six feet across. They reportedly operate under cover of darkness, sometimes cruising with their lights off in what appears to be a stealth-like manner. Sightings consistently occur after sunset.
Probably the craziest videos out of all the New Jersey drone videos I've seen so far. This orb Transforms into a craft and is caught on video . pic.twitter.com/jJ0yCZ4pID
– Aaron B (@palachiathought) December 12, 2024
Worse still, according to a state lawmaker briefed by Homeland Security, the drones can evade detection by helicopters and radio signals.
In response, two New Jersey congressmen, US Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, are calling on the military to shoot the drones down. Van Drew even speculated that the incidents might be part of an elaborate plot by Iran, suggesting the drones could be launched from an offshore "mothership" – a claim the Pentagon has denied.
As sightings continue to increase, pressure is mounting on officials to take decisive action. Governor Phil Murphy has expressed openness to federal forces shooting the drones down if their origin remains unidentified. At the same time, he's trying to reassure the public, emphasizing that there is no credible threat at this time.
Yesterday I convened a briefing with @SecMayorkas, senior officials from @DHSgov, @NJOHSP, and @NJSP, and members of our congressional delegation to discuss reported drone activity over parts of North and Central New Jersey.
– Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) December 5, 2024
We are actively monitoring the situation and in close…
The FBI shares a similar view, suggesting that many of the reported "drones" might actually be regular aircraft misidentified by amateur observers.
One enthusiast, Mick West, supports this theory, citing his own experience. He initially recorded what he thought was a drone, only to later identify it as a light aircraft.
Still, dismissing all the sightings as mass hysteria seems unlikely, particularly given the FBI's active involvement. If you happen to notice anything unusual in the New Jersey skies, the FBI encourages you to report it by calling their hotline at 1-800-225-5324 or submitting a tip via their website.
Image credit: Stacy Dellanno Sackett
Feds struggle to explain mysterious "car-sized" drone sightings over New Jersey
