The New Jersey UAP-Drone Event Timeline & Map

We compiled a list of locations and major events stemming from the Unidentifed Anomlaous “drones” which began on November 18, 2024.

Timeline and Map Updated 1/9/25

As of this date, we count 29 states affected. Only UAP sightings which matched the descriptions of the objects appearing near New Jersey are being considered for this timeline and map.

International incidents are detailed below the CONUS US incidents. Find them here.

The map is based off of the timeline which contains entries of “mystery drone” sightings as reported by news sources cited.

For a historical UFO analysis of New Jersey see here.

Sightings Across USA as of 1/09/24 – Fortean Winds
East Coast Cluster of Sightings – Google Earth

Note: The Oregon, Tenessee and California sightings have been a lesser degree of intensity of reports than the East Coast Cluster which has a significant number of reports.

Intensity:

December 2023

Location: Langley Air Force Base, Virginia
Incident:
Unidentified drones were observed flying over Langley Air Force Base for 17 consecutive days in December 2023. Sightings were consistent, with drones appearing daily at approximately 6 PM. Witnesses described the drones as silent, with bright lights, and flying in coordinated patterns. The activity caused significant concern due to the strategic importance of the base, which houses the Air Combat Command and other critical military operations.

Public Reactions:
The prolonged presence of drones over Langley sparked alarm among residents and military personnel. Discussions on social media speculated about espionage or surveillance activities, with many questioning the inability to intercept or identify the operators.

Investigative Updates:
The U.S. Air Force and Department of Defense have yet to confirm the origin or purpose of the drones. While radar systems detected the flights, no identifying information has been recovered. Military officials stated that the drones posed no immediate threat to the base’s operations, though the repeated incursions intensified calls for improved counter-drone measures at sensitive installations.

Source: Global News

“Despite the deployment of countermeasures, including ‘Dronebusters’—devices designed to intercept and disable unauthorized drones—the objects evaded capture and continued their activities unabated.”

Liberation Times

November 18, 2024


November 19, 2024


November 21, 2024


Late November 2024


December 4, 2024


December 7, 2024

December 7, 2024

Location: New Jersey

“By Dec. 7, drones had allegedly been spotted in at least eight North and Central Jersey counties including Bergen, Essex, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex and Warren counties.”

Source: NorthJersey.com


December 8, 2024


December 10, 2024


December 10–16, 2024

Location: Nebraska (Statewide)
Incident: Numerous reports of SUV-sized drones terrorizing towns and livestock across Nebraska. Witnesses described drones moving rapidly at speeds of up to 120 mph, hovering low over fields, and emitting bright lights. Sightings were particularly concentrated in rural areas, with drones operating during late evening and nighttime hours.
Public Reactions: Farmers and rural residents expressed alarm over the impact on livestock and the invasive nature of the drones. Speculation ranged from advanced government projects to foreign surveillance programs, heightening public concern.
Investigative Updates: Local authorities and federal agencies launched investigations into the sightings. Despite the intensity of reports, no official explanations or responsible parties have been identified. Investigators noted the advanced capabilities of the drones, suggesting sophisticated technology.
Source: Daily Mail


December 11–13, 2024

December 13, 2024


Location: Niobrara County, Wyoming

Incident:
Mysterious drones were reported flying over rural areas in Niobrara County, Wyoming. Witnesses described the drones as operating in coordinated patterns, mirroring the behavior of drones reported over New Jersey. The drones were observed at night, flying silently at low altitudes and forming grid-like paths over private lands and ranches.

Public Reactions:
Local ranchers and residents expressed concern, noting the invasive nature of the flights and their potential to disturb livestock. Comparisons to the New Jersey sightings fueled speculation about a broader operational pattern or shared origin.

Investigative Updates:
Local law enforcement acknowledged the reports and began coordinating with federal agencies, including the FAA, to investigate the sightings. Officials noted the similarities to New Jersey drone activity but have not identified the operators or confirmed a specific intent.

Source: Cowboy State Daily

December 16, 2024

Location: Los Angeles, California (Beverly Hills)
Incident: Comedian Dane Cook reported a mysterious drone hovering near his property in Los Angeles. The drone emitted scanning-like lights and moved erratically, as captured in a video Cook shared online. He described the moment as “wild,” noting the drone appeared to be observing the property or those within it.
Public Reactions: Fans and online followers expressed intrigue and concern about the incident, with many pointing out similarities to other recent drone sightings across the country. Discussions ranged from privacy invasion concerns to speculation about advanced surveillance technologies.
Investigative Updates: No official response or investigation into the specific incident has been reported. The sighting adds to the growing narrative of mysterious drone activity across the United States.
Source: Wide Open Country


Maryland

Date: December 12, 2024
Location: Residential area near Former Governor Larry Hogan’s home
Incident: Reports of dozens of large drones hovering late at night. The drones were visible for an extended period, raising concerns among local residents.
Public Reactions: Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan publicly acknowledged the event on X, expressing frustration at the lack of federal transparency and urging immediate investigation.
Investigative Updates: FBI’s Baltimore office confirmed it is aware of drone reports in Maryland and Delaware, though specifics remain unclear.
Source: NBC News; Statement by Larry Hogan


New York

Date: Early December 2024
Location: Statewide (specific regions unspecified)
Incident: Reports emerged of drone activity in New York, alongside other Northeast sightings. Local witnesses described unidentified aerial devices operating at night, similar to New Jersey events.
Public Reactions: Residents expressed confusion and unease over drones appearing with no explanation. Officials have not provided clear updates.
Investigative Updates: The FBI has not corroborated electronic evidence for sightings but acknowledges ongoing public concerns.
Source: NBC News

Delaware

Date: December 2024
Location: Statewide
Incident: Reports of possible drone sightings, particularly noted by the FBI’s Baltimore office. Specific areas of activity have not been disclosed.
Public Reactions: Residents and officials are demanding answers regarding the origin and purpose of the drones.
Investigative Updates: The FBI is monitoring reports but has stated there is no confirmed evidence of national security threats or restricted airspace violations.
Source: NBC News


Florida

Date: December 2024
Location: Statewide
Incident: Multiple reports of drone sightings surfaced in Florida, potentially linked to the broader regional activity observed in the Northeast. The nature of the sightings mirrors that of New Jersey and Maryland.
Public Reactions: Growing speculation and concern, with Floridians questioning the origins and operators of the devices.
Investigative Updates: No official investigations or statements from Florida authorities have been reported.
Source: NBC News


Connecticut

Date: December 2024
Location: Statewide
Incident: Senator Richard Blumenthal publicly demanded urgent investigations into the unexplained drone sightings. The activity appears consistent with the patterns observed in neighboring states.
Public Reactions: Blumenthal’s comments highlight growing bipartisan frustration and a call for transparency at the federal level.
Investigative Updates: Federal agencies have not provided substantial updates but claim the drones pose no immediate threat.
Source: NBC News

December 12–14, 2024

Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky

December 13–14, 2024

December 14, 2024


Location: East Alabama (specific sightings in Anniston and Oxford)

Incident:
Residents in East Alabama reported mysterious lights and drones hovering over neighborhoods and rural areas during the late evening. Witnesses described the drones as having bright, blinking lights and flying silently in patterns inconsistent with known aircraft. Some drones hovered low over residential areas, while others moved in formations across the sky.

Public Reactions:
Local residents expressed confusion and concern, with some speculating about surveillance or other unknown purposes. The sightings generated significant discussion on social media, with users sharing videos and debating the potential origin of the drones.

Investigative Updates:
Local law enforcement confirmed receiving multiple calls about the sightings. Authorities stated they are working with the FAA to investigate the incidents but have not identified any operators or determined the purpose of the drones.

Source: CBS 42

December 14, 2024

Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Incident:
Residents across Phoenix reported mysterious drone sightings during the evening hours. Witnesses described the drones as emitting bright lights and moving silently over residential areas and city outskirts. Some reported the drones hovering in place for extended periods before flying off in coordinated patterns.

Public Reactions:
The sightings sparked concern among residents, with many speculating about surveillance or experimental technology. Social media buzzed with videos and photos of the drones, leading to discussions about their potential origin and purpose.

Investigative Updates:
Local police acknowledged receiving several reports about the drones. The FAA has been notified, and authorities are collaborating to investigate the incidents. As of now, no operators have been identified, and no airspace violations have been reported.

Source: FOX 10 Phoenix

December 12–16, 2024

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

December 13–15, 2024

Long Beach and Temecula, California

December 15, 2024

Location: Belleville, New Jersey
Incident: Multiple drones observed flying in grid patterns over Belleville. Theories link the activity to missing radioactive material in the area. Witnesses describe synchronized movements of the drones during nighttime hours.
Public Reactions: Residents express alarm at the connection between the drones and potential radioactive material, fueling widespread speculation.
Investigative Updates: Local officials and federal agencies are investigating the connection but have not provided confirmation.
Source: NY Post

December 15, 2024

Location: Southern California (Redondo Beach, Pacoima, Riverside, Temecula)
Incident: Residents across Southern California reported mysterious drones, with sightings including hovering objects and rapid “moving lights.” Witnesses captured videos and photos of drones over Redondo Beach, San Fernando Gardens in Pacoima, and Riverside. Multiple drones were also observed over Temecula, with footage shared on TikTok.
Public Reactions: Local residents expressed alarm and curiosity, with some speculating about potential surveillance or criminal activity. National concerns intensified as similar sightings caused disruptions, including the temporary shutdown of Stewart International Airport in New York.
Investigative Updates: Federal officials, including the Department of Defense, confirmed drone activity over two military bases in New Jersey but noted that such incursions are not new. The Pentagon emphasized the need for stronger regulations, calling the activity “irresponsible” and frustrating.
Source: KTLA News


December 15, 2024

Location: Northern Vermont and New York
Incident: Residents in northern Vermont and parts of New York reported sightings of mysterious drones flying low over rural areas and near residential neighborhoods. Witnesses described the drones as having bright, blinking lights and moving silently in coordinated formations. Some reports indicated drones hovering near agricultural facilities and small airports.
Public Reactions: The sightings have sparked curiosity and concern among locals, with many questioning the purpose of the drones and their operators. Speculation includes government surveillance, corporate testing, or unknown operators.
Investigative Updates: Local authorities have acknowledged the sightings and are working with federal agencies to determine the drones’ origin. No concrete leads or violations of airspace have been reported.
Source: MyNBC5

December 15, 2024

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Incident:
Residents in Atlanta reported mysterious drone activity over various neighborhoods during the evening hours. Witnesses described seeing clusters of bright, silent drones flying at low altitudes and performing erratic maneuvers. Some drones hovered above residential areas, while others moved rapidly across the sky, leading to widespread speculation about their origin.

Public Reactions:
Residents expressed alarm and curiosity, with many questioning the purpose of the drones and their operators. Speculation ranged from surveillance activities to advanced technology demonstrations. Social media platforms were flooded with videos and eyewitness accounts, with some residents demanding increased transparency from local and federal authorities.

Investigative Updates:
Local law enforcement acknowledged the reports and stated they are coordinating with federal agencies, including the FAA, to investigate. As of now, no operators have been identified, and authorities have not confirmed any violations of airspace regulations.

Source: FOX 5 Atlanta

December 16, 2024

Location: Michigan (Statewide)
Incident: Reports of mysterious drones emerged across Michigan, with sightings in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and rural areas. Witnesses described clusters of drones hovering silently at night, with some moving in grid-like patterns. Speculation arose about their connection to the national wave of drone sightings.
Public Reactions: Public reactions varied, with some expressing concern about potential surveillance or security risks. Others speculated that the sightings were part of a hoax. Social media buzzed with discussions linking the drones to conspiracy theories and technological demonstrations.
Investigative Updates: State and local authorities investigated the sightings but found no conclusive evidence of illegal activity. Officials emphasized the potential for misidentification of lawful drone operations and other aerial phenomena.
Source: Detroit Free Press (article contains video)

December 13 and 16, 2024

Location: Evansville, Indiana (East Side and Saint Wendel in Posey County)
Incident: Multiple reports of drones or unidentified objects over Evansville. The first caller described dozens of bright, darting objects on the East Side near the Newburgh line. The second caller reported photos of approximately seven crafts his daughter captured near Saint Wendel. Witnesses noted erratic movements but lacked physical descriptions.
Public Reactions: While some residents expressed alarm, others reacted lightheartedly, joking about the sightings. Social media posts, including a video claiming drones were spotted over the Ozarks, fueled speculation but offered no clear explanations.
Investigative Updates: Local authorities did not confirm sightings. The FAA provided a general statement emphasizing the legality of drones under 400 feet and noted past cases of mistaken identity involving manned aircraft. The Evansville Regional Airport and FAA reported no known issues in the area.
Source: Evansville Courier & Press

December 15–16, 2024

Location: Utah (West Haven, Roy, Mapleton, Spanish Fork)
Incident: Numerous drones reported flying across multiple locations in Utah, including near Hill Air Force Base. Witnesses observed clusters of drones, with some hovering low over vehicles. A mother and daughter captured images of the drones, describing them as large and bright, sparking fears of unknown intent. Additional sightings occurred over Mapleton and Spanish Fork, where seven drones were observed moving in coordinated patterns.
Public Reactions: Local residents expressed alarm and confusion. Concerns over privacy and potential threats were heightened, particularly near Hill Air Force Base. Speculation from experts suggested a mix of legitimate drone activity and heightened awareness feeding the reports.
Investigative Updates: Hill AFB officials confirmed drones in the vicinity but stated that operations were not impacted. Authorities are monitoring airspace and collaborating with local law enforcement to track and identify unmanned aerial systems.
Source: KSL TV

December 11–17, 2024

Twin Cities, Minnesota


December 17, 2024

Location: White Settlement, Texas (Near NAS Joint Reserve Base and Lockheed Martin Facilities)
Incident: Unidentified drones observed flying approximately 100 feet in the air near high-profile military sites. Witnesses, including federal law enforcement and residents, reported seeing drones in clusters of six, pairs, or trios. The activity continued for two hours during the evening.
Public Reactions: Local residents and officials expressed heightened concern due to the national narrative around drones and security risks. White Settlement Police Chief Chris Cook noted the public’s awareness following similar Northeast sightings.
Investigative Updates: Federal agencies are actively monitoring the reports. Advanced detection technology and trained visual observers have been deployed by the Biden administration to investigate. Officials have stated that sightings likely involve a mix of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement operations, with no confirmed national security threats.
Source: Austin American-Statesman

December 17, 2024

Location: Colorado (Statewide)
Incident: Residents across Colorado reported mysterious drones flying near homes and neighborhoods. Witnesses described the drones as large, brightly lit, and silent, often hovering for extended periods before performing erratic maneuvers. Sightings were concentrated in suburban and rural areas.
Public Reactions: Many residents expressed unease, citing privacy concerns and the unusual behavior of the drones. Social media discussions speculated about their purpose, ranging from advanced surveillance to recreational use by unidentified operators.
Investigative Updates: Local law enforcement acknowledged the reports but did not confirm the origins of the drones. Federal agencies were notified, and investigations into their activity are ongoing. No violations of airspace regulations were reported.
Source: KDVR

December 18, 2024

Location: Tacoma, Washington
Incident: Residents of Tacoma reported multiple mysterious drones flying over neighborhoods and near industrial areas. Witnesses described the drones as emitting bright lights and moving in coordinated patterns, with some flying low enough to clearly distinguish their shapes. The drones reportedly hovered for extended periods before moving on.
Public Reactions: Residents expressed unease about the drones’ presence, questioning their purpose and origin. Some speculated about surveillance or mapping activities, while others raised concerns about privacy and safety.
Investigative Updates: Local authorities acknowledged the reports and confirmed that they are coordinating with federal agencies to investigate the sightings. No operators or organizations have been identified, and no restricted airspace violations have been reported.
Source: AOL News

December 21, 2024

Location: Metro East, Illinois

Incident:
An Illinois resident recorded strange lights in the skies above the Metro East region during the late evening hours. The lights were described as bright, erratic, and appearing in clusters. Witnesses noted the lights moved silently and seemed to hover in place intermittently before rapidly changing positions.

Public Reactions:
Local residents expressed curiosity and concern about the unexplained lights. Many speculated whether the lights were drones, advanced technology, or another aerial phenomenon. Social media saw an influx of shared videos and theories about the sightings.

Investigative Updates:
Local authorities and the FAA were alerted to the reports but have not identified the source of the lights. Officials stated there were no scheduled or authorized drone activities in the area during the time of the sightings.

Source: MSN News

December 23, 2024

Location: Manassas, Virginia, USA

Incident:
A mysterious drone was captured on video flying over Manassas, Virginia, during the late evening hours. Witnesses reported the drone as large, with bright, flashing lights, hovering over residential neighborhoods before moving swiftly towards a nearby wooded area. The drone emitted no sound and displayed erratic flight patterns inconsistent with conventional aircraft.

Public Reactions:
Residents expressed alarm on social media, with many speculating about surveillance or experimental technology. Local authorities received several calls reporting the incident, heightening community concern.

Investigative Updates:
Manassas police confirmed receiving reports and stated that they were working with the FAA to investigate. As of now, no operators have been identified, and authorities continue to monitor the airspace for further activity.

Source: InsideNoVa (article contains video)

December 25, 2024

Location: Western Arkansas and Surrounding States, USA

Incident:
Mysterious drones were reported flying over parts of western Arkansas, following similar sightings across neighboring states. Witnesses observed large drones operating in groups, often flying in grid-like patterns during the nighttime hours. Several reports described the drones as having bright, multicolored lights and silent operation.

Public Reactions:
Residents expressed unease and frustration, with many questioning the lack of transparency regarding the sightings. Local social media platforms were inundated with videos and eyewitness accounts, sparking speculation about the drones’ purpose and operators.

Investigative Updates:
The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management stated that they were monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with federal agencies. Despite significant public interest, no operators have been identified, and authorities have not released additional information regarding the drones’ origin or intent.

Source: Arkansas Online

In addition to the previously mentioned sightings in Arkansas, there have been reports of mysterious drone activities in neighboring states, including Missouri and Oklahoma.

Missouri: Residents near the Arkansas-Missouri border, particularly in the Ozark region, have reported clusters of 20-30 drones flying over properties. These drones were observed operating in groups during nighttime hours.

KKYR

Oklahoma: Similar drone sightings have been reported in Oklahoma, with residents observing large drones flying in coordinated patterns over rural areas.

NewsNation

These incidents have raised concerns among residents and local authorities, prompting investigations to determine the origin and purpose of these drone activities.

International Incidents Related to Similar UAP Sightings

Late November 2024

United Kingdom


December 3–4, 2024

Ramstein Air Base, Germany

Late November–December 2024

Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia

Locations:

Russia: Military installations in Siberia.

Kazakhstan: Baikonur Cosmodrome.

China: Coastal regions near Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Japan: Proximity to U.S. military bases in Okinawa.

Southeast Asia: Reports from Thailand and the Philippines.

Incident:

A significant increase in UAP and drone sightings across these regions.

In one notable case, a drone was reported hovering over HMS Queen Elizabeth (a Royal Navy aircraft carrier operating near East Asia), resisting electronic jamming attempts.

Behaviors Observed:

High-speed maneuvers and erratic flight paths.

Resistance to jamming and anti-drone measures, suggesting advanced electronic systems.

Hovering near key military and infrastructural assets.

Public Reactions:

Discussions on security forums speculate about espionage or testing of cutting-edge aerial technologies.

Theories range from foreign adversaries to corporate surveillance programs.

Investigative Updates:

Minimal official commentary from nations involved.

Security analysts note a sharp increase in aerial surveillance awareness, with counter-drone measures being reevaluated.

Sources:

Fears swarms of Russian drones are targeting US airbases in UK which are set to store nuclear missiles.
Source: https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/13923222/unidentified-drones-flying-us-air-force-bases-raf-targeted/

Drones spotted over three US air bases in UK.
Source: https://news.sky.com/story/drones-spotted-over-three-us-air-bases-in-uk-13261011

Unidentified drones spotted over UK military bases that house US Air Force activity.
Source: https://nypost.com/2024/11/24/us-news/unidentified-drones-spotted-over-three-british-military-bases-used-by-the-usaf/

January 2025

Denmark

Date: December 22, 2024
Location: Jutland Peninsula, Denmark

Incident:
Danish police reported multiple sightings of unidentified drones flying over critical infrastructure on the Jutland Peninsula. Witnesses described the drones as large and silent, often appearing during the late evening hours. The drones were sighted near energy facilities and railways, raising concerns about potential surveillance or sabotage attempts.

Public Reactions:
Residents expressed unease, with some fearing espionage or cyber-attacks. The Danish government faced calls for transparency and stricter drone regulations to ensure national security.

Investigative Updates:
Police have initiated an investigation into the sightings, coordinating with military and intelligence agencies. No operators have been identified, and authorities are using advanced radar systems to monitor further activity. The drones’ origin and purpose remain unclear.

Source: Deutsche Welle

September 22–28, 2025

📍 Denmark (Copenhagen, Aalborg, Esbjerg, Sønderborg, Skrydstrup Airports)

Incident:
Multiple unidentified drones triggered airspace shutdowns across Denmark. Copenhagen Airport halted operations for ~4 hours. Drones were described as large, silent, and unregistered. Military bases were also reportedly targeted. Authorities confirmed multiple detections but no attribution.

Notable Behaviors:

Connection:
Behavior mirrors NJ and Langley cases — advanced, silent, low-visibility craft near strategic sites.

Sources:
AP News, DR.dk, Danish Defense Command

Classification:
🟢 Tier 1 – Confirmed Anomalous Drone Event


September 25, 2025

📍 Northern Germany (Schleswig-Holstein)

Incident:
Drones were spotted hovering over a power plant, a hospital, and a shipyard in the region. The drones had no visible propulsion, emitted no sound, and remained stationary for extended periods. German authorities were unable to identify the source.

Notable Behaviors:

Sources:
AP News, Kieler Nachrichten

Classification:
🟢 Tier 1 – Infrastructure-Focused Anomalous Drone Event


Late September – Early October 2025

📍 Belgium (Elsenborn Military Base)

Incident:
Witnesses reported ~15 drones hovering in a grid pattern over Elsenborn base. The drones were silent, highly luminous, and departed before air response could intercept. Belgian military authorities have no attribution or origin. Radar was inconclusive.

Notable Behaviors:

Sources:
Le Monde, La Libre Belgique

Classification:
🟡 Tier 1 – Military Airspace Anomalous Drone Event
(Note: Monitoring needed; attribution still officially unknown)


October 3–4, 2025

📍 Munich, Germany (Franz Josef Strauss Airport)

Incident:
Munich Airport experienced two complete shutdowns within 24 hours after sightings of unidentified drones. Ground crews and pilots reported bright, hovering objects over runways. German Federal Police were unable to locate or track any drone via radar or line of sight.

Notable Behaviors:

Sources:
AP News, Süddeutsche Zeitung, Bavarian Interior Ministry

Classification:
🟢 Tier 1 – Civilian Airspace Intrusion with Anomalous Craft

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