ABC News - ABC World News Tonight with David Muir Full Broadcast - Dec. 15, 2024
Federal authorities are actively investigating a series of drone sightings reported across at least seven states in the Northeast, including New York and New Jersey. The FBI is processing around 5,000 tips related to these sightings, but only a small fraction have led to credible leads. Some sightings are confirmed as drones, while others are mistaken for manned aircraft. Despite no evidence of a foreign threat, lawmakers are urging the deployment of advanced detection technology to better identify and manage drone activity. In response, New York Senator Chuck Schumer is advocating for the use of radio wave detection equipment to assess drone size and speed. Additionally, two men in Boston have been charged for flying a drone near Logan Airport, highlighting the potential risks associated with unauthorized drone operations near critical infrastructure. The situation has prompted temporary closures of airports and increased scrutiny from federal and state officials to ensure public safety and address community concerns.
Key Points:
- Federal authorities are investigating drone sightings across seven Northeast states, processing 5,000 tips with less than 100 credible leads.
- Some sightings are confirmed drones, others are mistaken for planes; no foreign threat evidence found.
- Senator Chuck Schumer calls for advanced detection technology using radio waves to identify drones.
- Boston arrests highlight risks of unauthorized drone operations near airports, prompting temporary closures.
- Lawmakers demand more federal action to manage drone activity and ensure public safety.