Numerous drone sightings in New Jersey frustrating but don’t pose safety concern, governor says

PRINCETON, NJ– Dozens of drones have been spotted across New Jersey in recent weeks, including near sensitive locations such as a military research facility, which can be frustrating but does not appear to pose a public safety concern, Gov. Phil Murphy emphasized Monday.

The FBI has been investigating reports of several mysterious nighttime drone flights that began last month through central Jersey and has asked the public for help. Since then, residents have reported seeing drones in other areas.

While speaking at an unrelated law-signing event in Princeton, Murphy noted that there were 49 reports of drones on Sunday, mostly in Hunterdon County. The Democratic governor said these numbers include possible sightings and that the same drone may be reported more than once.

“This is something we take deadly seriously. I don’t blame people for being frustrated,” Murphy said.

It is unclear who is operating the drones or why, but federal and state officials have repeatedly emphasized that there is no known threat to public safety.

Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Drone operators must also be FAA certified. Most, but not all, of the drones spotted in New Jersey were larger than those typically used by hobbyists.

The flights initially raised questions in part because they took place near the Picatinny Arsenal, a US military research and production facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.

Most of the drones have been spotted along coastal areas, with some devices recently spotted over a large reservoir in Clinton.

The FBI is asking residents to share any videos or photos of the flights, along with other relevant information.

Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but there are several rules you must follow