Governor announces sightings of flying objects in New York and New Jersey with no threat to public safety, according to state and federal authorities.
The recent surge in drone sightings in New Jersey and New York has raised concerns among residents and officials. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has initiated an investigation in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies to address the issue. Despite the reassurances from state and federal authorities that there is no imminent threat to public safety or national security, the public remains apprehensive about the situation.
The National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, stated that federal investigators have not been able to verify the reports of unauthorized drones in New Jersey. He suggested that many of the sightings could be attributed to legally operated manned aircraft. However, these statements have not alleviated the worries of the public.
Lawmakers in both New York and New Jersey are urging the federal government to provide more information regarding the drone sightings. Representative Chris Smith from New Jersey emphasized the need for immediate action from the Biden administration to address the situation. Governor Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey also expressed gratitude to the White House for their involvement but stressed the necessity for additional resources to understand the root cause of the drone activity.
The series of sightings began in central New Jersey in mid-November when personnel at the Picatinny Arsenal reported a drone flying near the base. Subsequently, reports of sightings flooded the New Jersey State Police, prompting further investigation. While the initial sightings were concentrated in central New Jersey, the phenomenon quickly spread to other parts of the state, including coastal counties in the south and suburbs of Philadelphia.
In early December, sightings of drones were reported in New York City, starting from Staten Island’s west shore and extending to southern Brooklyn near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. More recently, sightings have been reported in the Bronx and near LaGuardia Airport in Queens. Additionally, residents in upstate New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania have reported mysterious drone sightings at night. Governor Larry Hogan of Maryland also shared his personal encounter with numerous large drones above his home in Davidsonville, Md.
The widespread nature of the drone sightings has sparked concerns and calls for swift action to address the situation. State and federal authorities are working diligently to investigate the matter and provide clarity to the public. As the investigation continues, it is crucial for the authorities to keep the public informed and ensure the safety and security of residents in the affected areas.
Source: The NY Times
