FBI Newark Warns Against Pointing Lasers or Shooting Drones

The Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management, in collaboration with FBI Newark and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP), has issued a public advisory addressing a significant rise in drone activity and related safety concerns in the area.

This advisory follows a series of troubling incidents involving laser strikes on pilots of manned aircraft and misidentifications of drones (Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or UAS).

Laser Strikes Endangering Pilots

Authorities report an increase in cases where pilots of manned aircraft have been targeted with lasers from the ground.

These dangerous actions often stem from individuals mistaking manned aircraft for drones. Laser strikes can temporarily blind pilots, endangering not only the crew and passengers but also people on the ground.

Weapon Discharges Prompt Safety Concerns

Adding to the risk, there have been instances of individuals firing weapons at objects they believe to be drones. In some cases, these misjudgments could result in manned aircraft being mistakenly targeted, creating potentially deadly consequences for all involved.

Law Enforcement Efforts Intensify

In response to these threats, FBI Newark, NJSP, and other law enforcement agencies have been conducting nightly operations to identify and address unlawful UAS activities. These efforts leverage advanced tools and technology to ensure public safety.

However, a persistent challenge remains: the public’s frequent misidentification of UAS, which complicates enforcement and prevention efforts.

Common Misidentifications

Many reports of suspected UAS activity turn out to involve other objects, such as:

Manned aircraft
Low-orbit satellites
Celestial bodies, including planets and stars

This misidentification underscores the importance of accurate observation and reporting when suspecting UAS activity.

Tools to Improve Identification

Residents are encouraged to use readily available tools and resources to aid in visual identification.

Websites and mobile apps provided by government agencies and private companies can help distinguish between UAS, manned aircraft, and other objects in the sky.

These tools provide real-time information on flight paths, satellite locations, and visible celestial bodies, reducing the risk of false sightings and harmful actions.