PASCACK VALLEY—Residents are urged to remain alert and report any unusual drone activity following an increase in sightings of unidentified drones across New Jersey — including, evidently, the night of Dec. 8 above the Township of Washington. This comes amid ongoing investigations by state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.
The Township of Washington Police Department (WTPD) promptly issued a press statement:
The Township of Washington Police Department announces several drone sightings in town during the evening hours of Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. Drones were observed in the area of the Westwood High School as well as Pascack Road in the area of Town Hall and the Washington Town Center strip mall.
We are asking that all residents be vigilant and report any drone sightings to the Township of Washington Police Department as well as directly to the FBI at the phone number or email tip lines listed below.
Photographs and video are specifically requested and can be uploaded to the email address tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips@fbi.gov.
For additional information, please visit FBI Drone Information.
The sightings have been occurring at night, and some eyewitness accounts allege the drones are larger than the usual consumer models.
The WTPD said that when reporting these incidents, gather as much detail as possible, such as:
- Behavior: Explain what the drone was doing, i.e., hovering, moving erratically, or lingering in one spot.
- Time and Date: Record when you observed the drone.
- Location/Direction: Note the exact location of the sighting (street, neighborhood, or nearby landmarks) and the direction from which it traveled.
- Appearance: Describe any distinguishing features, such as size, color, or lighting.
A Growing Concern
First reported in Morris County in November, drone sightings have since spread to various areas, including Bergen County and Staten Island, N.Y. Witnesses describe seeing clusters of drones and, in some cases, possible fixed-wing aircraft. The sightings often occur at night, and some drones travel in groups, raising questions about their purpose and origin.
State officials have emphasized that there is no known threat to public safety. Gov. Phil Murphy has briefed federal agencies, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, to coordinate efforts in addressing the issue.
Despite these reassurances, community members have voiced concerns, with many wondering whether the drones pose risks to privacy, aviation, or local security.