Taking a look back at the NJ 'drone craze' a year later

A year has already passed since reports of drones flying through North Jersey skies began to circulate, sparking a nationwide media frenzy and numerous theories on a topic that still leaves many questions today.

The first recorded sighting of "unusual drone activity" came from the Picatinny Arsenal military research center in Morris County Nov. 13, 2024. Days later, county authorities acknowledged the alleged sightings but stated there was no known threat to the public.

The rumors would intensify over the next several weeks, as local, state and federal officials demanded answers. The public was eager to know the source of the mysterious objects lighting up the night sky, including whether they were, in fact, drones.

Here is a timeline of the bizarre saga, documented as it unfolded b