Despite growing concerns about drones spotted over New Jersey and neighboring states, authorities insist that there is no imminent risk to the public. In recent days, reports of these sightings have intensified, sparking concern among residents and local officials.
John Kirby, the White House National Security spokesperson, emphasized that there is no evidence linking these sightings to any threat. He reassured the public that none of the aircraft were observed in restricted areas and that the U.S. Coast Guard found no connection to any foreign “entities.”
However, the fears have led some lawmakers to call for more drastic actions. Senator Richard Blumenthal suggested that drones should be shot down if they are flying over sensitive areas such as airports and military bases. According to Blumenthal, urgent intelligence analysis is necessary, and swift intervention should be taken to ensure public safety. Other local politicians, such as Representative Dawn Fantasia, described the objects as large devices that sometimes fly with their lights off, raising suspicions that they may be used for purposes beyond recreational hobbyist activities.
Although many of the sightings are attributed to relatively large drones, some believe that they could be aircraft. In a meeting with state police and national security officials, local representatives discussed the incidents, which have spread to New York and Pennsylvania.
The FBI has also launched an investigation to gather photos, videos, and other information from citizens. Meanwhile, it has also emerged that a dozen drones had followed a Coast Guard boat near Barnegat Light, though their presence did not disrupt operations.
The growing unease over these sightings continues to highlight the need for stricter regulations to monitor and control the use of aircraft, especially near sensitive facilities.