ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, N.J. — Congressman Chris Smith (R-Manchester) spent Monday night at Island Beach State Park alongside Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy, intensifying efforts to investigate a series of unidentified drone sightings that have alarmed residents and authorities across central New Jersey.
Rep. Smith, who believes the activity may originate offshore, potentially from a ship-based source linked to a foreign nation such as China, joined Sheriff Mastronardy as part of an ongoing initiative to assess the potential risks posed by the drones. The lawmaker has raised concerns about national security vulnerabilities, drawing parallels to incidents such as the Chinese spy balloon detected in U.S. airspace last year.
“Understandably, New Jersey residents are very alarmed at this significant and recurring phenomenon—and the tepid response from our state and federal agencies so far is totally unacceptable,” Smith said in a statement Monday night. He emphasized the need for stronger communication and coordination between local law enforcement and federal partners to address the growing presence of unmanned aerial systems.
Smith confirmed that he has been in contact with Ocean County and Monmouth County sheriffs, as well as federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. military personnel, to expedite the investigation. He called for “swift and bold action” from state and federal authorities to identify the source of the drones and reassure the public.
Authorities have not yet determined the origin of the drones or their purpose, but Smith stressed his commitment to securing answers. “I will continue working around the clock to ensure law enforcement has all the tools and authorities necessary to identify these unmanned aerial systems and until New Jersey residents have the comprehensive answers they deserve,” he said.