Gov. Phil Murphy has reached out to federal authorities for assistance in identifying the source of unexplained drone activity in New Jersey. While no public safety threats have been confirmed, Murphy acknowledged the growing frustration among residents over the lack of answers.
Speaking Monday, Murphy described the efforts of state and federal agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security, to investigate the issue. “We don’t see any concern to public safety,” he said, but added that the mystery behind the drones’ purpose and origins remains troubling.
The drones have primarily been observed along the Raritan River, with up to 49 reports in a single evening. Officials are working to determine whether overlapping accounts are inflating the numbers, but the sightings have persisted for several weeks.
The FBI has urged the public to provide information, stating that reports describe clusters of drones and potentially a fixed-wing aircraft. Investigators are exploring possible connections to nearby industries, as the area includes several pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers.
Advancements in drone technology have only deepened concerns. Drones’ capabilities in surveillance and precision targeting make them potential tools for espionage or unauthorized reconnaissance. Officials have yet to confirm whether the activity represents industrial spying or another form of intrusion.
Murphy’s appeal for federal assistance highlights the challenges of managing unidentified aerial phenomena. As investigations continue, residents and officials alike await clarity on the purpose and origin of these mysterious drones.
