the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Federal and state officials are sounding the alarm over a dangerous and growing trend: individuals targeting drones—and mistakenly, manned aircraft—with lasers and even firearms.
Misinformation and Misidentification
The FBI Newark office and New Jersey State Police have reported an increase in cases where pilots of manned aircraft—such as planes and helicopters—are being struck in the eyes with lasers. Authorities believe that in many cases, people on the ground assume these aircraft are drones or other unmanned systems.
“When you look up at the sky at night and think you see mysterious drones, they could easily be manned aircraft, low-orbit satellites, or even planets and stars,” said Nelson Delgado, Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Newark.
Serious Risks for Pilots and Passengers
Pointing lasers at aircraft—intentionally or not—can have severe and dangerous consequences. When a laser strikes a cockpit, it can temporarily blind pilots, putting the lives of everyone on board at risk.
Authorities are particularly concerned that frustrated individuals may escalate their actions by attempting to shoot at aircraft, believing they are targeting drones. Delgado emphasized:
“We are also concerned people will take matters into their own hands and fire a weapon at an aircraft. Not only is this act against the law, but it poses an incredible danger to the pilots and passengers on those aircraft. Whatever your beliefs are, putting someone else’s life in danger is not the answer.”
Clifton Incident Highlights Growing Problem
The warning comes as Clifton police investigate a recent report of a laser being pointed at an aircraft near Route 3. Authorities are reminding the public that such actions are not only dangerous but carry severe legal consequences. Both state and federal laws prohibit aiming lasers at aircraft or engaging in other reckless actions against aerial vehicles. Violators could face:
- Criminal charges (state and federal)
- Civil penalties
- Jail time and substantial fines
Public Responsibility
The increase in drone activity and reports of mysterious aerial sightings has fueled confusion and concerns. However, authorities urge the public to remain cautious and responsible. Misidentifying manned aircraft as drones—and acting on those suspicions—can lead to life-threatening situations and criminal liability.
The Bottom Line
Authorities warn , if you see something unusual in the sky, do not take matters into your own hands. Pointing lasers or discharging weapons at any aircraft—manned or unmanned—is illegal, dangerous, and potentially deadly. Stay safe, stay informed, and leave aerial concerns to trained professionals and law enforcement.
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Disgraceful….this is a Mayorkas plot to get a bill approved before the Biden presidency ends in 34 days.
FBI is on it…no surprise there.
“They could be Iranian drones!!!! Hostile foreign entities!!!!” … but … “Don’t shoot them down because that’s illegal.”
They should be transparent about what’s going on. Just like Ridgewood is…said no one!