TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy assured the public on Tuesday that the mysterious drones reported across New Jersey, including along the Jersey Shore, pose no immediate threat to public safety, even as their operators and purpose remain unknown.
Speaking to reporters, Murphy disclosed that officials, including the FBI, Homeland Security, and state police, are closely monitoring the situation, however none of those agencies have been able to get to the bottom of the mystery.
“We don’t see any concern to public safety,” Murphy said. “Having said that, it’s frustrating that we don’t have more answers as to where they’re coming from and why they’re doing what they’re doing.”
The governor revealed that 49 sightings were reported Monday night, including incidents near military installations and sensitive locations. He described the drones as “very sophisticated,” noting that they “go dark” whenever authorities attempt to track them.
The unexplained activity follows several reports of low-flying drones over the Atlantic Ocean in recent days, with sightings near Manasquan and Point Pleasant fueling speculation that some of the devices could be sea-launched. State and federal agencies have yet to confirm the origin or intent of the drones.
“I don’t blame people for being frustrated,” Murphy added. “But I can assure folks that everything that can be done is being done.”
Despite reassurances, questions linger as drones continue to evade identification and operate near key areas in the state.