The FBI and New Jersey State Police have issued warnings against residents engaging in dangerous behavior, such as shooting at unidentified drones or pointing lasers at manned aircraft. This follows an alarming increase in incidents where pilots have been hit in the eyes with lasers, posing significant safety risks. Reports of mysterious drones in New Jersey and nearby states, including sightings near sensitive locations like the Picatinny Arsenal military base and Donald Trump’s golf club in Bedminster, have heightened concerns.
Authorities highlighted the potential danger of mistaking manned aircraft for drones, warning that shooting at or targeting these aircraft with lasers could lead to deadly consequences. The FBI, NJSP, and other agencies have been actively investigating the drone sightings, employing various tools and equipment to track down illegal operators or those acting with malicious intent. They stressed the importance of addressing public concerns while ensuring safety in the skies.
FBI and NJ Police Warn Against Shooting Drones, Highlight Risks of Laser Strikes on Aircraft
In light of these incidents, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced the deployment of sophisticated federal systems to monitor and identify unmanned aircraft. These measures aim to enhance surveillance capabilities and address the increasing frequency of drone sightings. The state is working closely with federal and local agencies to mitigate potential threats and improve airspace security.
Some lawmakers have called for decisive government action to address the situation. New Jersey state Sen. Jon Bramnick and Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. are among those urging for more robust measures. Meanwhile, Rep. Jeff Van Drew alleged foreign involvement, claiming Iran was responsible for the sightings and referencing a supposed “mothership,” a claim that the Pentagon has denied.
National leaders have also weighed in, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urging the Department of Homeland Security to deploy specialized detection systems to address the reported drone activity. These ongoing efforts reflect a growing concern over the safety and security implications of unidentified drones, particularly in sensitive or high-risk areas.
