Mysterious drone crashes in New Jersey backyard, sparks fresh concerns
A drone mysteriously fell from the sky and landed in a residential backyard in Pequannock Township, Morris County, New Jersey on Thursday night. Police confirmed the drone was a hobby or toy type, not a large commercial or military-grade model. The incident occurred at approximately 8:45 pm, according to dispatch audio. Pequannock’s mayor, Ryan Herd, visited the scene shortly afterward, expressing concerns about the increasing number of drones flying over private properties.
“This is a matter of privacy and safety. We don’t know who is flying these drones, why they’re here, or where they originate from,” Herd stated.
Weeks of Drone Sightings Across New Jersey
The crash comes amid weeks of reports about unidentified drones lighting up the night skies of New Jersey since November 18. Reports have suggested that up to 180 drone sightings occur nightly, with the majority spotted in North Jersey. However, sightings have also been reported in New York, Maryland, and Florida.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has clarified that these drones appear to be commercial-grade and not recreational models, with some measuring up to six feet in diameter. However, their origin and purpose remain unknown.
Speculation and Security Concerns
Some officials have speculated that the sightings began as part of a surveillance drill from the Picatinny Arsenal military base but may have led to "copycat" activity. Despite this, the Pentagon and FAA have stated that the drones are not part of any military operations, nor do they appear to pose an immediate threat to national security.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., has voiced his concern, urging for urgent intelligence analysis and measures to remove these drones from the skies. Meanwhile, Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., dismissed speculation about foreign origins, such as an Iranian "mothership" off the East Coast.
FBI Investigation and Government Response
The FBI is leading the investigation, with President Joe Biden and the White House National Security Council briefed on the matter earlier this week. While no evidence currently links the drones to foreign entities or national security threats, the lack of information has frustrated lawmakers.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has called for Congressional action, advocating for legislation that empowers state and local law enforcement to detect and mitigate drone activity.
Public Safety and FAA Guidance
The FAA has advised residents against taking matters into their own hands, cautioning against shooting down drones. Such actions are classified as a federal offense under the Aircraft Sabotage Act and could lead to severe safety hazards.
The FAA recommends contacting local law enforcement if a drone is flying unsafely or violating privacy.
Calls for Transparency and Regulation
With over 400 sightings reported and growing public unease, residents and officials alike are demanding transparency and regulatory measures. Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan criticized federal agencies for their inability to address the situation, labeling the response as "unacceptable."
The mystery surrounding these drones continues to baffle both officials and the public, with calls for immediate action to ensure safety, privacy, and accountability in the skies above New Jersey and beyond.