The War Zone has obtained a tranche of documents shedding new light on what police and other government officials actually saw during the New Jersey drone scare that began in late 2024. We were the first to write about an incident that occurred on Nov. 19, 2024 involving drones over the U.S. Army’s Picatinny Arsenal facility in northern New Jersey. We have been documenting highly concerning drone incursions over military installations and critical capabilities for years. But this time what came after was very different.
In a very short period of time, there was an avalanche of drone reports from all over the region and a crush of media coverage from around the globe. As we frequently noted, the vast majority of these so-called drones were reported by civilians and turned out to be misidentified manned aircraft and even stars and planets. In fact, we saw no visual evidence of any mass drone incursions or strange objects over New Jersey during this prolonged cultural event. Shortly after President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, his administration announced that the Jersey droneswere approved by the FAA “for research and various other reasons.”
That isn’t to say that nothing occurred, but drone mania was clearly sweeping amongst the populous, with every aircraft in the sky suddenly becoming a spooky drone. The mainstream media did not help at all here, either. Videos from local and national news reports showing 737s and helicopters, but being passed off as mysterious craft, became the norm, not the exception. There were also government drones deployed during this period that were surely seen by some as possibly hostile. The lack of understanding about drones and their varied capabilities and configurations among local governments and officials also added to the confusion and fear.
However, there were still sightings that can’t be easily explained as planets or low-flying cargo feeder aircraft. The cache of documents we reviewed, which were obtained by the Freedom Of Information Act and local Open Public Records Act, contains thousands of pages and are mostly emails, police reports and internal memos that began being created on Nov. 18, 2024, a day before our Picatinny arsenal story.
The documents show how police departments and government agencies were alarmed as reports of “rogue drones” started to pour in. They also offer first-hand accounts of sightings by law enforcement officers out in the field. These direct observations include reports of drones flying over military installations, swarms interfering with airport operations and helicopter rescue flights and a host of other issues. There are also claims of the drones disabling police communications and jamming air traffic control radars, although these have to be taken as highly speculative, as we don’t have any info on further investigations into potential electronic warfare effects from any unidentified craft.
We have chosen some of the most interesting reports and documents to share here, published here for the first time. While they do not represent a ‘smoking gun’ as to what occurred over the Northeastern United States during the winter of 2024, they do offer additional color as to what law enforcement at least thinks they saw and how local governments reacted to these sightings.
Some of them have been lightly edited for clarity.
Nov. 18, 2024
Watchung Police Department (WPD) 6:41 PM
From Sherif Zalton to all WPD members:
Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights
All,
There have been reports county wide of rouge drone flights (multiple drones flying in pattern over sensitive sites). Due to the nature of President-elect Trump frequenting our county, if we receive or observe any reports of this type, please notify me. If I’m not available please reach out for Carolyn Solon.
Thanks,
Captain Sherif Zaiton
Nov. 19, 2024
Peapack and Gladstone Police Department 3:49 PM
From: Police Chief Stephen Ferrante to several other police officials.
Subject: Drone Form
All,
I just sent a form with information regarding drones. As I advised last night… there were multiple reports of large drones in our area. The info on the paperwork I emailed has important information regarding operating drones, information we need to gather if we locate these individuals, etc.
Please carry a couple of copies with you.
Stephen C. Ferrante
Chief of Police
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Watchung Police Department 4:02:04 PM
From Chief Scott Anderle to all WPD members
Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights
Members,
The County, NJSP, and the FBI are all working together on this. If we get reports of drone or other UFO activity, notify County Communications in addition to the Command Staff. These drones are reported to be far bigger than typical hobbyist models and require special licensing from the FAA. If you encounter someone operating, landing, or possessing a drone, especially in the dark, you can detain and ask them to provide licensing information using the attached Drone Operator Sheet. There is also a specific 2C charge that is applicable for operating unlicensed drones. Please be alert, especially over the next few evenings. These events are extremely concerning.
In the event you locate a landed drone, consider contacting NJSP to have it cleared by the Bomb Squad as the size of the recent drones encountered make them potentially military grade.
This information is Law Enforcement Sensitive. Direct all inquiries to the Captain.
Reach out if you have any questions.
Chief Scott Anderle
Watchung Police Department
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Watchung Police Department. 4:29 PM
From: Sherif Zaiton to Scott Anderle
Subject: Re: Rogue Drone Flights
All,
The latest update we just received suggests these drones were purposely operating around County radio towers. The tower on Johnston Drive is a County radio tower. Please keep this in mind.
Additionally, as the Chief said, we are being told to very much consider that these drones could be carrying an explosive payload and to treat them as such. If one lands or crashes, please keep this in mind.
Any questions please let me know.
Captain Sherif Zaiton
Watchung Police Department
Executive Officer
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Raritan Boro Police 5:33 PM Eastern:
D/Sgt Benjamin Griffin observed a fixed wing drone approximately 400ft in the air traveling from South West to North East towards Somverille. At [5:39 PM], I observed a second fixed wing drone traveling in almost the same flight path. I observed a smaller, possibly a quad drone, flying North to South from Raritan towards Hillsborough in the area of River Road. County [Office of Emergency Management] OEM was notified.
Given all the reports, Morris County law enforcement leaders felt compelled to issue a statement.
Nov. 21, 2024
Bedminster Township Police 7:31 AM
From Chief Francesco Bernardo to several township officials.
Subject: Re: Drones
We have federal, state, county, and local agencies all involved investigating these incidents. Tom and I are attending a briefing today for an update. As per the FBI, we are not to issue any press releases. I also don’t want to discuss this in any [Township Council] meetings because it could have national security implications and there would be nothing that I could disclose anyway.
If we ever get any intel that there is a real or active threat to Bedminster we will obviously act accordingly. Rest assured, there are a lot of resources being dedicated to this.
Respectfully,
Chief Francesco Bernardo
Bedminster Twp Police Department
Nov. 22, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. 3:53 PM
From: Sergeant Andrew J. Winter, Counterterrorism Coordinator to county officials
Subject: ALERT Suspicious NJ UAS Activity – PLEASE NOTIFY ALL PATROL UNITS
The FBI and [Joint Terrorism Task Force] JTTF is requesting assistance regarding suspicious unmanned aircraft in New Jersey. Please see the alert and notify all patrol units to document and make notification as outlined below –
Thanks,
Andrew
Nov. 23, 2024
Branchburg Township Police Department. 11:57 PM
On November 23, 2024, at approximately [11:57 PM] I observed that both my portable radio and the radio in my patrol vehicle were “Out of Range.” At the same time, I was contacted by Ofc. Conforti inquiring about this same issue with his radios. I contacted Somerset County Communications and advised them of what was occurring. They initially advised that they did not notice any radio issues and placed me on a brief hold.
Then they advised me that all police departments utilizing the Somerset County Communications Center were all experiencing the same issue with all radios in county being “Out of Range.” The radio signal was out for approximately three to five minutes before resuming normally. At this time Sgt. Cronce was on an alarm call with an open door when he lost radio communication while clearing the building. Our police department’s OEM Coordinator, Ofc. Russoniello was notified of this issue as well as the remainder of the Somerset County OEM Coordinators.
After the radio issue was resolved, I spoke with Ofc. Magos who advised me that he was at police headquarters when the radio issues occurred. He noted that when this occurred, observed a drone flying near police headquarters in the sky. He did not obtain an image or video of the drone.
I then notified the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness via email to their Counter-Terrorism Watch of this incident. I also notified Chief Buck, Captain Edgar and Lt. Jepsen of this matter via email.
Nov. 24, 2024
Parsippany Police Department. 6:39 PM
Sgt. Lesiak, Ptl. Sisco and I responded in the areas of the Reservoir Rt 46 W and Greenbank Rd on a report of drone activity flying over the reservoir. Upon arrival at the Rockaway Sewage Plant, I observed more than 13 drones flying through the area in a Northerly direction. Sgt. Lesiak and Ptl. Sisco arrived on scene. Officers were unable to identify the style and size of the drones. Officers observed the drones in the area for approximately 30 minutes. Ptl. Sisco made contact with CT watch and a [suspicious activity report] SAR report was generated. The NJ State Police were requested to monitor the 287 Corridor due to the critical infrastructure areas of the reservoir and water treatment plants. Sgt. Lesiak was later informed that the FBI, US Marshals and [Morris County] MC Sheriff’s Office were currently tracking the suspicious drones.
Nov. 25, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
From: Sergeant Andrew J. Winter, Counterterrorism Coordinator to county officials.
Subject: ALERT Suspicious NJ UAS Activity – PLEASE NOTIFY ALL PATROL UNITS
Hi All,
Please accept this an update to my earlier alert –
There have continued to be unexplained drone sightings around high tension wires, power stations, and military bases in New Jersey. These alerts are being released almost daily from NJ [Regional Operations Intelligence Center] ROIC per [New Jersey Suspicious Activity Reporting] NJSARS notifications. Please remain alert and ask that patrol divisions make immediate notification should a sighting be confirmed in Middlesex County, NJ. Some of these unknown fix wing drones have been quite large. These aircraft have flown over critical infrastructure in the State of New Jersey and there is a concern this could be “out of country” nations. At the current time, there have NOT been any sightings in Middlesex County, NJ to my knowledge, but that may change.
I have received several calls on this from our local jurisdictions. Please heighten awareness and, if possible, attempt to enhance regular patrols around areas of substations and critical infrastructure. The FBI is requesting immediate notification on sightings. Please call me as well to make appropriate notifications to NJ ROIC and for the NJSAR. I hope all of you have a great Thanksgiving with your families!
Be safe,
Andrew
Nov. 26, 2024
Branchburg Police Department 7:26 AM
A quad propeller drone that was hovering within the perimeter of the switching station approximately 150 feet above a pole near Route 202. The estimated altitude of the drone at approximately 300 feet. As I approached the gate at the switching station the drone appeared to turn off its flashing red and green lights and leave the immediate area. Cpl. Martin and Det. Sgt. Decandia then arrived on location to assist with the investigation.
After about a minute the drone along with 2 others were visible on the back side of the property and leaving the area to the North.
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Branchburg Police Department 6:34 PM
Officer Juan Polanco
On November 26, 2024, at approximately [6:34 PM] [New Jersey State Police] NJSP NorthStar [emergency medical helicopter] was requested to land at Raritan Valley Community College (118 Lamington Road) to medevac an injured male from a motor vehicle crash. At approximately [6:39 PM] as North Branch Fire Department was arriving at the landing zone, 3 drones were observed just east of the landing zone. North Branch Fire relayed this information to Somerset County Communications to advise NorthStar of the drone activity.
As NorthStar was approaching the landing zone at approximately [6:43 PM], multiple more drones were spotted in the area. This information was relayed to NorthStar via radio. Due to the numerous drones in the immediate area, NorthStar was unable to land. A new landing zone was established at Somerset Airport in Bedminster. As NorthStar was flying towards the Somerset Airport, 3-4 drones appeared to follow NorthStar.
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Fair Hills Police Department 10:22 PM
On the above date and time, while on routine patrol, I observed numerous low-flying UASs maneuver along the US Hwy 202 corridor traveling N/B. Between the span of [10:20 PM and 10:40 PM] I observed approximately 10 UASs follow the general direction of US Hwy 202 N/B towards Bernardsville. I estimated the flight altitudes to range from approximately 200 to 400 feet from the ground. The UASs were of atypical size (significantly larger than standard civilian-model drones), triangular in shape, had strobing white/red LEDs, and solid red/green lights affixed to the wing tips. I advised SCC, who notified OEM director Joe Schardien. I also notified Cpl. Kamieniecki via text message.
Nov. 27, 2024
Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 12:30 AM
Officer Mattia
On Wednesday November 27, 2024 at approximately 0030 hours, I was parked at 1100 Terminal Circle Drive, Ewing, NJ on the driveway leading to Station 34 when a vehicle approached me occupied by Detective Dilea (NJSP). Det. Dilea asked me if I had seen any drones flying over the airport. Before I could answer he pointed out a drone flying from the direction of I-295 at approximately two hundred feet in the air over the terminal and baggage claim then out of sight towards Capital Health. At this time Ofc. Salvatore #285 notified Sgt. Caruso and we conducted an exterior patrol to try and follow the drone. When we could not locate the drone and returned to the terminal. At that time we were approached by Detective Garzio (TPD) who stated that they have been trying to track multiple drones in the area and that they aren’t normal consumer drones but military style drones with fixed wings and motors. He also stated that the drones “can jam signals.”
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Branchburg Police Department: 10:19 PM
Officer Nick Magos
On the above date and time while conducting routine patrol of Route 202, I was conducting a U-turn at Route 202 and Old York (Centerville), when I observed an unidentified drone hovering over the [Public Service Electric & Gas] PSEG Switching Station, 1389 Route 202. The drone appeared to be a quad propeller drone that was hovering within the perimeter of the switching station approximately 150 feet above a pole near Route 202. The estimated altitude of the drone at approximately 300 feet. As I approached the gate at the switching station the drone appeared to turn off its flashing red and green lights and leave the immediate area. Cpl. Martin and Det. Sgt. Decandia then arrived on location to assist with the investigation. After about a minute the drone along with 2 others were visible on the back side of the property and leaving the area to the North.
Dec. 3, 2024
Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 6:50 PM
Sgt. Shane Coderoni
I was informed by Station 34 Captain Corey Platt about drone activity in the Trenton-Mercer Airport airspace. Captain Platt relayed information from Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC), who reported observing “three to four primary targets in the Delta Airspace at 600 feet and five operating in the southeast.” I immediately dispatched officers on duty contact with TATC Brandon Dominguez…Dominguez reported that in addition to the radar tracking, he visually observed several drones operating in the runway departure zones. The radar data, which could track the speed of the drones, confirmed their presence in the airspace. The fastest speed recorded for the drones was 150 knots (172.6 miles per hour).
As a result of this drone activity, flight operations at Trenton-Mercer Airport were affected. All training flight operations were grounded. Other arriving and departing aircraft were advised to proceed with caution. To address the situation, Dominguez contacted Airport Operations Employee Ed Berry, who issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), which stated:
-TTN 12/002 TTN AIRSPACE UAS W I AN AREA DEFINED AS 4.5NM RADIUS OF TTN SFC-2500FT AGL 2412040017-2412041100-
The NOTAM was valid until [6 AM] Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
I inquired with Dominguez regarding the impact of the drone activity on the inbound Frontier Airlines flight, scheduled to arrive at approximately [9:40 PM]. Dominguez confirmed that, at that time, the flight would not be diverted but advised to proceed with caution due to the ongoing drone activity.
I instructed Dominguez to contact Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch should any further drone activity impact flight operations. A still photograph was taken of the Trenton Air Traffic Control Radar Unit. TATC Dominguez stated that the blue dots without a designation, were the “primary targets” (drones). I observed several drones flying in and out of radar during my interview with Dominguez… No further information or drone sightings were reported after this discussion.
At approximately [7:59 PM], I was contacted by NJSP Sgt. Wisniewski, attached to the Regional Operations Intelligence Center. Sgt. Wisniewski stated that he received reports of drone activity affecting flight operations at TTN. I advised him of the ongoing investigation and actions taken.
He advised to contact him if anything further was reported.
At approximately [8:12 PM] , Lt. Corban was contacted and notified of the incident.
A Suspicious Activity Reporting Form was submitted to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness CT Watch Unit on Tuesday, December 3 , 2024, at [10:40 PM].
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Chatham Township Police 10:35 PM
Ptl. Brian McGrath
On December 3, 2024, at [10:35 PM], Officer Colette Murphy and I deployed the Chatham Township Police Department Drone from headquarters due to possible unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) activity in the area. During my initial scan, at approximately 190 feet in height, I did not observe any drone activity in the immediate area.
To the southwest of headquarters, I observed several UAVs that were flying in a coordinated fashion and appeared to be moving back and forth in a grid pattern. Their formation changed several times during my 30-minute flight before dispersing in a nonunified way.
Due to an unknown reason, I was unable to capture photographs or video using our drone.
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Raritan Township Police 11:08 PM
Patrol observed a low flying (large) drone, hovering over the Raritan Train Station. The drone remained hovering over the train station for a period of time before proceeding towards the Somerville Circle at a higher altitude.
Dec. 4, 2024
Readington Township Police 9:47 AM
From Lieutenant Steven Rindock to other police officers
Now that we’ve had significant involvement with these suspicious drones, I’m thinking that we should utilize our own drones and conduct counter-surveillance. While it’s true that we don’t know when or if they will return to Readington, haven’t heard of any agencies being proactive in their attempts to investigate these drones.
I’m thinking that we should have a drone detail with our certified pilots that can either be an overtime detail, or modified work schedule. If we have a pilot (or multiple) on this detail, they can monitor the CAD and respond to areas where they’re receiving reports. Ideally these reports would be in Readington but I would encourage the pilots to pursue all leads no matter the jurisdiction.
And if one of our drones were to get too close and cause one of the suspect drones to fall out of the sky, we would call our Federal partners and turn over all intel to them. We have insurance for our equipment.
Let me know your thoughts, thanks.
Lieutenant Steven Rindock
Readington Township Police Department
Readington Township Police 10:27 AM
From Detective Sergeant Jason Phares to Lieutenant Steven Rindock and other police officers.
I am not opposed. A few considerations on both sides so that we come to a sound decision:
We are somewhat unique in that we have a [Certificate of Authorization] COA and operate under Part 91, meaning we can legally fly at night, which is generally prohibited otherwise. I assume this is why others have not attempted to investigate using their own drones.
Our drones broadcast an identifier. We could be identified as trying to intercept these unknown drones by other investigating agencies. Again, we are legally allowed to operate, but it is something to consider. We should try to deconflict before moving forward. There probably are Federal agencies/military using their capabilities to monitor already, which I would not want to interfere with. We are able to observe and photograph/record from a lengthy distance because of zoom and IR capabilities, so that is an option also. Those recordings could be passed along.
These operate at night and usually stay in the area. It could be handled as a callout to try to get a recording when we get reports that they are in the area. I don’t think response time would have an impact if last night’s events gave any indication.
Dec. 5, 2024
Clinton Township 7:34 PM
Officer John J. Tiger
A report of drones near 45 Deer Hill and Petticoat and Briar. I observed what appeared to be at least three separate 4 drone formations. One was moving west over Runkle Road, another was over Exxon Research, also moving west, and one appeared to be over the north end of town. These appeared to be 4 units moving in a pattern. I am familiar with the air traffic in the area and these were not consistent with that traffic. I observed one unit hovering directly over top of the portion of Exxon Research that has their refinery equipment. I drove through the Exxon Research property attempting to get a better view of the drone, but it moved away. I reached out to their security through dispatch to attempt to have them use their cameras to get video of the drones. While driving through the property one went almost directly over top of my patrol vehicle. The unit was high enough that I could not get enough light pushed out to it to get a visual other than the red/green/white lights it was running. This one did not seem to be making a lot of noise and I believed this unit was a fixed wing version.
From Cokesbury at Glencree Lane I could see numerous drones. I called dispatch to advise them. They told me that FBI agents were in Readington actively looking. I directed them to this location due to the elevation and clear field of view. From that location, with an approximate 200 degree field of view and clear skies I could see dozens of similar drones all around. Some of them were flying in patterns, others were hovering, and some were moving in group formations. Most of these drones appeared to be at least a half mile from my location with many more well beyond that.
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Dec. 6, 2024
Freehold Township Police 8:25 PM
Lt. Kenneth S. Kleinmann
On 12/06/2024 between [6 PM and 6:30 PM] while in the area of State Route 33…I observed an unmanned aircraft suspected to be a drone hovering in the area. The drone in question continued in a western direction following SR 33 business ultimately flying in the area of a [Jersey Central Power & Light] JCPL substation and US Army National Guard Armory. The drone continued in a western direction until I lost sight of same. At the time of the incident Fightradar24 showed no registered aircraft in the immediate area and drone scanner yielded no results for RemoteID.
It should be noted, the drone was emitting a green and white light and appeared to have the structure of a large quad-copter.
Incident was documented with Homeland Security through their UAS Sightings Information.
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Jefferson Township Police 9:58 PM
Incident Report
Dispatch received a call regarding potential drone activity in the Saffins Pond Dam area approximately one hour prior. The caller had responded home to research what they had seen and once they suspected it to be a drone, they notified dispatch. Patrol responded to the area. PO Ryan and I responded and parked our patrol vehicles at the gate and proceeded to the area described by the caller on foot.
While proceeding to the area on foot, I scanned the area utilizing my thermal device. In the area of the dam, consistent with the caller’s information, I observed a figure that appeared to be a person standing straight up. From my perspective to the left of the figure, appearing to be in the vicinity of the bridge was a flashing white light. A shape could not be made out. We alerted dispatch to the findings.
While scanning the area, we observed what appeared to be a person shining a flashlight down the path leading toward Weldon Road. We alerted other units to check the area, but they could not locate the person. The light was moving in a manner not consistent with headlights from the roadway. Coincidentally, while approaching the area, our portable radios and cellular devices were operational. While within close proximity to where the person and device was suspected, our radios stopped working. We attempted to transmit, but no signal was relayed. After we left the suspected area, our radios became operational again.
After we cleared the area, we returned to our cars and the radios were operational in the area that they were previously not. [Morris County Sheriff’s Office] MCSO was notified and responded out and checked the surrounding area with other patrol units but did not locate anything. While we were in the area, we did not observe any drone or aircraft flying in our proximity.
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Dec. 6, 2024
West Caldwell Police 6:31 PM
Officer Kevin Antero
Headquarters received multiple calls regarding drone activity in the area. Officers also observed multiple drones flying in the area in our jurisdiction. I contacted the Essex County Airport tower and reported the above incident. Employees from the Essex County Airport tower advised they also observed four drones flying above the airport and were not able to observe them using their radar and were also not receiving a remote identification from the drones. Employees advised they believe the drones are using a sophisticated radar jamming technology for the tower to not be able to see them on radar.
Clinton Township Police 7:34 PM
Officer John J. Tiger
I made contact with FBI special agent Sierputowski. He responded out to confirm what I was seeing. While on scene with me he confirmed that the lights I suspected to be drones did match the description of the units that the ongoing reports around the state have involved. I can only estimate the number of drones due to the extremely clear visibility and their constant movements but there were at least 20 drones visible at any given time. I believed there to be more than that amount actually in the air, but they were at times obscured by ground features.
Dec. 7, 2024
Carteret Township Police 8:20 PM
Lt. Robert Wargocki
On Saturday December 7th, 2024, I was on patrol eastbound of Industrial Highway in Car # 01 when I observed an unidentified object, which appeared to be a drone, flying in the air over Kinder Morgan [Carteret Terminal] which is a critical infrastructure in the Borough of Carteret. I was unable to determine the approximate size or any distinguishing markings but observed that it had red and white lights that were dimming and reactivating as it slowly flew in an eastbound direction towards the Arthur Kill waterway and Staten Island New York.
I proceeded to drive onto Roosevelt Avenue towards the east end of the Kinder Morgan facility past Lafayette Street and exited my patrol unit in order to photograph the drone using the shift Commandez’s cell phone. I then observed a second unidentified object / drone flying from the south in a northeast direction paralleling the Arthur Kill waterway with the same type of lights (red/white) that kept dimming and reactivating which I photographed as well. I radioed dispatch to advise them of my findings and create a CAD entry.
I then drove towards the Carteret Waterfront and observed an additional three unidentified flying objects / drones slowly flying from the south and in a northeast direction and photographed them as well.
I returned to my patrol unit and proceeded back towards Kinder Morgan to further investigate any additional drones in that area and observed two flying in the vicinity of the NJ Turnpike (Exit 12) and the Amazon Warehouse. Photographs of those drones were also taken using the Shift Commanders cell phone and all are attached to this report.
In all, ten drones were observed between my first observation at [7:56 PM], until the last one at [8:17 PM]. over the NJ Turnpike.
Dec. 8, 2024
East Rutherford Township Police 5:30 AM
Lt. McCann of the Federal Reserve Bank contacted headquarters to report that three (3) drones were observed flying over their building this morning at approximately 5:30AM. According to Lt. McCann, one large drone (approximately the size of a motor vehicle) and two smaller drones were observed by officers approximately 100 feet above the parking lot, located at 100 Orchard Street in East Rutherford. Lt. McCann submitted pictures taken by his officers at the time and were attached to the report. Surveillance video of the drones taken by the Federal Reserve is also available upon subpoena. Incident was documented with the Emergency Response Bureau (North Region) as well as the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Intel Unit.
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Mercer County Sheriff’s Office 7:30 PM
Sgt. Shane Calderoni
I…was notified by Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch that Captain Nunn of Trenton-Mercer Airport Fire Station 34 had reported multiple drones/UAV operating around the airfield, specifically flying over runway 24.
At approximately [8:32 PM], I contacted Captain Nunn. Captain Nunn stated that he had visually observed approximately a dozen suspected drones passing through and around the airfield, but these drones were not detected on radar. He had notified Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC) and Airport Operations. At the conclusion of our conversation, I exited the Sheriff’s Office at 10 Grumman Ave. and observed several suspected drones hovering over the Sheriff’s Office and Signature Aviation, at an altitude of approximately 500 to 600 feet.
At approximately [8:38 PM, I arrived at Trenton Air Traffic Control (TATC) on the airfield. Upon entering, I observed a rotary-style drone/UAV, approximately the size of a truck, operating over the Trenton-Mercer Airport Terminal at an altitude of approximately 400 to 500 feet. The drone crossed into the airfield’s airspace and then took off toward Capitol Health Hopewell….
In TATC, I met with Air Traffic Controller Robert Casey, who confirmed multiple suspected drones were operating around the airfield’s airspace. At that time, no Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued to warn arriving and departing aircraft. Given the situation, Casey advised that a NOTAM was warranted. I then contacted Airport Operations Jeff Ritter to inform him of the drone activity and recommend issuing a NOTAM. Ritter agreed, and the following NOTAM was issued:
AIRSPACE UAS WI AN AREA DEFINED AS 4.5M RADIUS OF TIN SFC-2500FT AGL. 09 DEC 02:04 UNTIL 09 DEC
11:00 2024. CREATED: 09 DEC 02:04 2024
Casey clarified that no flights would be grounded or diverted unless a specific operational safety concern arose. Arriving and departing aircraft were advised to use caution due to the ongoing drone/UAV activity.
At approximately [8:44 PM], Casey requested an NJSP Helicopter Unit conduct a sweep around the perimeter of the airfield, specifically near Signature Aviation. By approximately [8:54 PM] after several sweeps of the area, no drone activity was detected in the airfield’s immediate airspace. The NJSP Helicopter Unit then landed safely on the NJSP Ramp.
Casey stated that no “false positives” were detected on radar, but the multiple visual sightings of drones were consistent with the lack of radar signals. I advised Casey to notify Mercer County Sheriff’s Dispatch if any further safety concerns arose.
At approximately [9:19 PM], Mercer County Dispatch informed that Ewing Police had reported spotting a drone flying over Fisher Middle School (1325 Lower Ferry Rd), heading in the direction of the airport.
TATC noted several suspected drones in the distance, but none were detected crossing into the Airport’s airspace. At approximately [11:51 PM], an arriving commercial Frontier Airlines Flight #FFT2742 from Orlando, FL, carrying approximately 182 passengers, landed safely and did not report any drone activity.
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Carteret Township Police 7:40 PM
Officer Sarah Abdelnabi
I was dispatched to the area Spruce St. for a report of multiple drones in the area. Upon arrival, I observed several unidentified objects, appeared to be drones flying around the area of Spruce St. and Arthur Ave, and disappeared heading towards the area of possibly Police HQ.
As I was making my way towards the area of Police HQ, Lt. Hart reported observing possibly the same 4-5 drones flying in the area of Dule Pyle ( 5000 Industrial Ave.) down the waterway heading towards Kinder Morgan.
Dec. 9, 2024
Howell Township Police 10:22 PM
Ptl Alex Peltzman
Aircraft incident: Manasquan Reservoir
Responded to the above area for the report of drones flying over the reservoir. Upon arrival to the [New Jersey Water Supply Authority] NJWSA gate access off of Southard Ave, two un-identifiable flying objects with blinking lights could be seen in the air flying South from my location directly over the body of water.
Dec. 10, 2024
There were so many drone sightings that the New Jersey State Police called a special statewide meeting to discuss the issue.
The New Jersey Regional Intelligence & Operations Center (NJ ROIC) also put out information about the drone sightings.
Dec. 12, 2024
Howell Township Police 8:55 PM
Ptl. Chandler Reed
Aircraft Incident – 102 East Florence Circle
Responded to the above for a report of drones. Upon canvassing the area, I observed multiple Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) in the airspace. While canvassing, Michael Steiger (W/M/44/Howell) flagged me down and advised that over Naval Weapons Station Earle (NWSE) he saw a drone turn into a “white sparkle” and believes that it crashed into the property of NWSE West of Colts Neck Road. A search of aviation flight records for ADS-B yielded negative results. NJSP notified via their UAS sighting platform. NWSE notified of the possible uncontrolled flight into terrain (UFIT).
Howell Township Police 9:14 PM
Ptl. Chandler Reed
Aircraft Incident Snow Chief Court
Caller reporting drones or possible christmas lights in the sky…concerned for her dog to go outside.
Responded to the above for a report of possible “christmas lights in the sky” or drones. Upon canvassing the area, I observed multiple Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) in the airspace. A search of aviation flight records for ADS-B yielded negative results. NJSP notified via their UAS sighting platform.
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Lakewood Township Police 9:41 PM
Officer E. Micallef
On Thursday, 12/12/2024, at [9:41 PM] I was traveling North on Airport Rd approaching Oak St when I observed a large drone flying lower than any other drone I have seen to-date. NOTE: there have been drone sightings across NJ and the Federal Government provided statements to the public that they are not aware of who is operating the drones, but they do not believe they are dangerous to the public.
I followed the drone as long as I could but it was traveling at a high rate of speed. It was very large, dark colored metal framing, and very long beams from the center area that extended to four or more propellers. This drone was the at the lowest altitude of all the drones observed today (a total of approximately 10 from my assigned zone). It also appeared to be similar or exactly the same as the other drones that were in the area.
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Galloway Township Police 9:44 PM
Officer Stephen Vernon
On Thursday, December 12, at approximately [9:44 PM], dispatched advised me that the air traffic control tower at the Atlantic City Airport called advising of a drone in the area of the airport.
They advised that it was above 5500 feet and falling rapidly. They also reported a blue laser near the airport shinning down from up high. The tower requested we check the area.
I responded to the area of the White Horse Pike and Pomona Rd and began scanning the sky. I immediately observed a very slow-moving flying object heading northeast towards my location. It had a red and green flashing lights and appeared to be around 1000 feet off the ground. It continued towards my location and passed directly over me. As it did, I observed that it was a very large drone comparable to the size of a small car. It continued traveling northeast very slowly. It should be noted that it did not emit sound like an airplane or helicopter.
Prior to clearing the area, I observed two more drones east of my location also moving northeast. A fourth drone was observed stationary hovering over the airport.
I responded to the station after clearing the area and contacted the air traffic control tower. I spoke to FAA employee, Mike…I advised him of what I observed, and he advised me that he was reporting it to the DEN. Mike said the DEN was similar to the ROIC but on a federal level. I advised Mike I would report the incident to the ROIC via a SARS notification along with my report.
The Atlantic County Prosecutors Office, Homeland Security, personal where also notified.
Dec. 13, 2024
Plainview Township Police 8:08 PM
Cpl. Daniel Kanaley
On the above date and time, dispatch received a phone call from staff at Princeton Plasma Physics Lab [PPPL] regarding possible drone sightings over their restricted area. I spoke with Lt. Chris Pietsch (Site Protection Division) who reported that at approximately[8:02 PM] they observed approximately 11 drones flying in the area of the PPPL property for approximately 20-25 minutes. Specifically, 5 of the drones flew through their federal restricted air space and came as close as 100-200 hundred yards from them. They were described as fixed wing drones with one red, one green and one white light on each drone (all flashing). Lt. Pietsch provided cell phone video of one of the drones from a distance, which was attached to this case.
Contact was later made with Sgt. Winters of the MCPO CTC via telephone and this report was later emailed to him with the video.
Dec. 14, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office
Sergeant Andrew J. Winter
Counterterrorism Coordinator
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office
Intelligence, Counterterrorism, & Bias Unit
Hi All,
Please accept this as an update to the ongoing drones –
I thought the recent patterns over the past two nights were interesting to share with all of you. We had many drone sightings over Middlesex County, NJ in recent days. It appears that those sightings were focused on areas above or around our medical centers. This includes Princeton Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson, and JFK Medical Center – in terms of a pattern. In addition, there were drones sighted over Princeton Plasma Lab in Plainsboro, NJ which is federally restricted airspace. Lastly, through multiple counties to include Middlesex there were several laser (green color) interactions with pilots flying both commercial and cargo flights over New Jersey. These interactions appeared, based on reports, to be higher in elevation, but the green laser is consistent with the green colored light reported on the UAS drones. It is not confirmed if those interactions were in fact drones or independent laser to aircraft interactions.
I just wanted to send out this short update. The reporting has highlighted patterns of activity throughout the county.
Updates will be provided as pertinent and available. Have a great weekend!
Respectfully,
Andrew
By this point, Congressman Tom Kean weighed in. His office sent an email to local officials letting them know he was calling on then-President Joe Biden and other federal and state officials to provide answers about the unidentified lights in the sky.
In closing: there have been no arrests made in the Jersey Drone investigation and no drones recovered that we know of. The vast majority of these incidents, as we noted earlier in this story, were misidentifications. However, these first-hand reports from law enforcement officers and government officials are interesting credible witness datapoints and underscore just how little we still know about what actually happened, or didn’t happen, over New Jersey during the Winter of 2024.
Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com