PA State Police Investigating Mysterious Drone Sightings

PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania State Police are investigating reports of the mysterious drone that have appeared in the skies across the state with increasing regularity in recent days.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said that state authorities are aware of the sightings and that they're marshaling resources to find answers. CNN reports that Pennsylvania State Police are using their helicopters to investigate in the Keystone State more closely.

A state senator has also requested the federal government give the states authorities to "deal" with the drones directly, calling them a national security and public safety risk.

“Current federal regulations tie the hands of state and local governments, preventing them from taking immediate action when drones threaten the safety and privacy of our communities,” State Sen. Rosemary Brown, who represents Monroe County, said in a statement. "This is about giving states the tools they need to protect their residents."

Her letter to the FAA calls for a change in current regulations that require states to cede authority to the federal government.

"Our communities cannot afford delays caused by federal bureaucracy when faced with potential threats," she said. "States must be permitted to respond in real time."

Meanwhile, local police departments are asking residents to remain vigilant and to report drone sightings to the FBI.

"Drones have become increasingly popular and accessible due to their ease of use and affordability," the Lower Moreland Police Department said. "While these devices have many beneficial applications--such as in delivery services, search and rescue operations, security, and infrastructure assessments--UAS can also be used for illegal or malicious activities, including potential acts of terrorism. WHILE THERE IS CURRENTLY NO KNOWN THREAT TO PUBLIC SAFETY, WE URGE THE PUBLIC TO REMAIN VIGILANT."

Sightings first appeared widespread in southeastern Pennsylvania last week, after several weeks of sightings over the skies of New Jersey. Nearby states like Connecticut and New York are also now reporting similar "drones."

There was a sharp increase in reports around Pennsylvania last Thursday night, and sightings continued to be reported across social media throughout the weekend.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security issued a statement last week on the New Jersey sightings specifically, stating they have no explanation for the drones but they do not believe there to be a threat.

“We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus," the agencies said in a statement. "The FBI, DHS and our federal partners, in close coordination with the New Jersey State Police, continue to deploy personnel and technology to investigate this situation and confirm whether the reported drone flights are actually drones or are instead manned aircraft or otherwise inaccurate sightings."

Authorities urge all suspicious drone activity be reported to the FBI by calling 1-800-225-5324.