Topline

For several weeks, citizens across New Jersey — as well as New York and Pennsylvania — have reported seeing clusters of drone-like objects flying low in the sky at night, and state officials have asked the FBI for answers as information remains scarce about the continued sightings.

Key Facts

What Have Officials Said About The Drones?

The Picatinny Arsenal said in a statement to NJ Advance Media on Nov. 24 that the drones were not related to the military and that it was contributing to the investigation. More than 20 mayors across New Jersey signed a letter on Dec. 9 petitioning for “transparency” about the investigations. Gov. Murphy spoke during a bill signing Monday, saying “it's really frustrating that we don't have more answers as to where they're coming from and why they're doing what they're doing.” He added the drones are “sophisticated” and “go dark” after someone sees them, and he urged more federal involvement. Lawmakers held a hearing on Tuesday to discuss the drones. Several representatives expressed frustration at not having answers or insight into the investigation from the FBI investigation. At the hearing, Rep. Chris Smith, R-NJ, advocated for a broader action and described it as “serious.” Jon Bramnick, R-NJ, urged for a “limited state of emergency” to be implemented. Robert Wheeler, the FBI assistant director leading the investigation, said at the hearing the agency is “actively investigating” the drones and that it is “concerning” that there are no clear answers yet.

Big Number

3,000. That’s how many sightings have been reported to an FBI tip line established for the drone sightings. Gov. Murphy said New Jersey saw 49 on Sunday alone, saying these sightings could have been the same drone being reported more than once.

Key Background