Recent reports of mysterious drone sightings across New Jersey have left residents uneasy and officials scrambling for answers. The sightings, which have been linked to red, green, and white lights hovering in the sky, have prompted more than 5,000 tips to the FBI in recent weeks, with federal authorities now investigating the phenomenon.
Kyle Breese, a resident of Ocean Township, described seeing "red and white lights" in the sky that appeared stationary, unlike typical aircraft. "To me, they're looking for something," said Breese's mother, Luann, who also witnessed the lights. Many residents, including Breese, are voicing concerns about the potential proximity of these drones to military installations and ammunition bases in New Jersey.
In Asbury Park, a coastal town known for its vibrant summer tourism, sightings have become frequent. Hotel staff members Garrett Openshaw and Collin Lynch reported seeing at least 12 sedan-sized drones flying in unison over the ocean. "It's hard to tell if they're just shooting a movie or something else," Lynch said, as the area has been hosting a Springsteen biopic production.
Meanwhile, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become inundated with videos of the alleged drones, though some users, like Cassie Miller of Monroe, question their authenticity due to the prevalence of artificial intelligence. "It's so hard to know now," she said.
Despite widespread speculation ranging from UFOs to foreign surveillance, federal authorities have assured the public there is no evidence of a national security threat. A joint statement from the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, and Federal Aviation Administration emphasized that the drones are likely hobbyist or commercial aircraft. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder noted that over one million drones are registered in the U.S., with about 8,500 in flight daily.
Representative Carlos Giménez (R-Fla.), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, expressed frustration over the federal government's inability to track or identify the drones. "The federal government hasn't the faintest idea what's going on with these drones," Giménez said, labeling the situation a potential national security vulnerability.
While White House national security spokesperson John Kirby stated that initial analysis indicates the drones pose no risk to public safety, Giménez remains skeptical. He warned that technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, could elevate future drone incidents to more dangerous levels. "With the advent of artificial intelligence, when you don't need a pilot anymore, those drones are going to pose a significant problem," he said.
Public anxiety has been further fueled by conspiracy theories. Some locals speculate the drones are connected to missing radioactive material briefly reported in New Jersey earlier this month. Federal officials quickly debunked the theory, clarifying that the radioactive material was safely recovered and that drones were not involved in its search.
The situation has drawn national attention, with lawmakers attending closed-door intelligence briefings to gain clarity on the matter. Despite these efforts, no definitive explanations have been provided.
For residents like Breese, the drones remain a disconcerting mystery. "I have kids, so it's weird," he said. "Are they filming? Or is it some creep with a camera?" As authorities continue their investigations, New Jersey residents are left grappling with questions about the lights in their skies and the potential implications of unchecked drone activity.
