Officials demand explanation on mysterious drones as more sightings reported in New York metro area and beyond
Federal agencies are under immense pressure to provide the public with more information regarding the unexplained drone sightings in the New York City metropolitan area and surrounding regions. The sightings, which have persisted for weeks, have occurred over residential neighborhoods and critical infrastructure sites.
Recently, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed concerns on social media about the increasing number of drone sightings in her state, joining New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania in this growing phenomenon.
While federal officials have attempted to assuage public anxiety regarding these sightings, they have not disclosed specific details about the nature of the drones. Authorities maintain that there is no evidence indicating a public safety threat, attributing many of the reported sightings to misidentification.
“The bottom line is this: They’re not providing enough information to the public, and the public is concerned,” said US Representative Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey and member of the House Intelligence Committee. He indicated that constituents consistently express their worries about the situation.
A recent drone sighting led to a temporary runway closure at Stewart International Airport in New York on a Friday night. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the airport located approximately 70 miles north of New York City, reported that the closure lasted about an hour, yet did not impact flight operations.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated her discontent, emphasizing that she has instructed the New York State Intelligence Center to actively investigate the drone sightings and collaborate with federal law enforcement to address the issue.
Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis criticized the response to the sightings as outrageous, questioning why the government has not provided information about the operators or purposes of these drones. Malliotakis, together with Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella, is demanding answers after numerous drones have been spotted over critical infrastructures such as Port Liberty and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Local officials who have been briefed on the matter described instances where drones seem to fly in coordinated patterns and can remain airborne for extended periods, reportedly up to six hours. Belleville, New Jersey’s Mayor Michael Melham indicated that police have been advised to contact the county bomb squad if they encounter a downed drone, highlighting the cautious approach law enforcement must take under the current circumstances.
Although federal officials assert that the drone sightings do not pose a threat to public safety, some local leaders, including New Jersey Assemblyman Erik Peterson, have expressed skepticism about the government’s transparency regarding the situation. Peterson shared his own observations of drones near his rural home, suggesting that the government may be withholding critical information due to either embarrassment or national security concerns.
In a bold statement, President Donald Trump called on the Biden administration to release any relevant information about the drone sightings or take more drastic action against them. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has promised transparency if any concerning information emerges.
Officials are currently deploying advanced radio frequency technology to locate the operators of the drones. Various strategies exist to effectively manage drone operations, including jamming signals and potential remote hijacking. However, these tactics come with risks, and shooting down drones is considered a last resort.
Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey has requested additional resources from the federal government to tackle this ongoing issue effectively, citing the need for enhanced understanding of the drone activity.
Amid increasing sightings, Naval Weapons Station Earle reported multiple instances of unidentified drones entering its airspace, even though no imminent threats have been confirmed. The energy company PSEG has contacted the appropriate authorities regarding drone reports over its nuclear power plants.
In response to escalating public concern, local authorities have ramped up their vigilance at sensitive locations, with Morris County calling for federal resources to address unauthorized drone flights. The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office has also mentioned increased scrutiny in their operations.
With drone sightings being reported more frequently, state police and local law enforcement are investigating the phenomenon as an unsettling issue for public safety across multiple states. Connecticut officials have begun utilizing drone detection systems to aid in the investigation efforts.
Amidst these growing concerns, White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby stated that there is no evidence of national security threats or foreign involvement regarding the reported drone sightings. Authorities have refuted claims of flying over restricted airspaces and maintain that most sightings may be attributed to conventional manned aircraft.
As local officials express their frustrations over the lack of communication and transparency from federal agencies, Governor Kathy Hochul has urged Congress to enhance local authorities’ ability to manage drone activities effectively. Revised regulatory powers could assist law enforcement in responding to unauthorized drone operations.
As investigations continue, the apparent chaos surrounding the drone sightings has left residents anxious. Officials stress the need for clearer communication to restore public confidence and mitigate speculations resulting in fear. With ongoing inquiries aimed at uncovering the truth behind the mysterious drones, local communities remain vigilant.
