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Federal government sending drone-specific radar to New Jersey to investigate mysterious sightings
By
Giulia Heyward
Published Dec 12, 2024
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Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
By
Giulia Heyward
Published Dec 12, 2024
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The federal government is sending New Jersey specialized radar technology to help investigate numerous reports of mysterious drones circling the skies.
The decision comes amid mounting pressure from lawmakers for the FBI and other agencies to provide more transparency, including at least one call for a “limited state of emergency” until the mystery is resolved.
Reports of the drones began spreading on social media in mid-November. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy initially downplayed the concerns last week, saying he had spoken with several federal agencies and determined there was “no known threat to the public at this time.” However, as sightings persisted in New Jersey and nearby areas, including Staten Island, other officials escalated their demands for action.
On Wednesday, two New Jersey assemblymembers announced that the state would be receiving drone-specific radar technology to aid in the investigation.
“This is a gap in potential security vulnerabilities that must be remedied expeditiously,” Assemblymember Roy Freiman said. “We are committed to working with the New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness to address these concerns and will keep the community informed as we learn more.”
Mayors from 21 towns across the state sent a letter to Murphy urging statewide measures. Meanwhile, a tense Congressional hearing revealed that FBI officials still do not know who is behind the drone activity.
In a letter to federal officials, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker called on federal agencies to provide more information to the public.
“There is a growing sense of uncertainty and urgency across the state — from constituents and local officials alike — despite assurances that the drones pose no known threats to public safety,” Booker wrote in the letter.
New York Rep. Nicole Malliotakis of Staten Island also requested that the Federal Aviation Administration impose temporary drone flight restrictions over the region’s airspace after reports of sightings in her district.
New Jersey Sen. Jon Bramnick went a step further, urging the state to declare a limited state of emergency until answers are provided.
“The State of New Jersey should issue a limited state of emergency banning all drones until the public receives an explanation regarding these multiple sightings,” Bramnick said in a statement Tuesday.
New Jersey Rep. Jeff Van Drew told Fox News on Wednesday that the unidentified drones could pose a national security threat and should be shot down.
Murphy has stood by his assertion that the drones posed no public safety risk, but told WNYC on Wednesday night that the lack of credible information on the drones is “frustrating.”
“The last thing we need is fearmongering out of some members of Congress," he added.
New Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer introduced legislation this week that aims to increase federal funding for radar technology for local law enforcement tracking drone activity. He also helped introduce a measure known as the Drone Act that would federally criminalize illegal drone activity.
“Together, with the actions I am announcing today, we will protect our law enforcement, our homes, and our skies to ensure that in the greatest country in the world, our best days are and always continue to be ahead of us,” Gottheimer said in a statement on Tuesday.
Tagged
public safety
new jersey
staten island
Giulia Heyward
Giulia Heyward is a breaking news reporter on the Day-Of desk. She previously worked at NPR, as a breaking news reporter, and the New York Times, as a reporting fellow on the national desk. Her work has also appeared in CNN, The Atlantic and Politico. Got a tip? Email [email protected] or more securely on signal at 917-715-1458.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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