Police: No evidence found of downed drone in Hillsborough parking lot

First responders searched the area from the air and on foot Thursday night and then again on Friday morning and were not able to find any evidence of a drone.

Matt Trapani

Dec 13, 2024, 11:18 AM

Updated 1 hr ago

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Hillsborough police say that there was no evidence found that a drone crashed into a field in town.
First responders were called to the parking lot of Lowe’s at 315 Route 206 Thursday around 8:30 p.m. after a witness reported seeing a drone flying in the area and striking a high-power tension line. Police say that the witness stated that the drone then crashed into a field.
First responders searched the area from the air and on foot Thursday night and then again on Friday morning and were not able to find any evidence of a drone.
The search was concluded just after noon on Friday.
The reports come as New Jersey residents reported seeing drones flying all around the state.
Local, state and federal agencies are investigating the reports, but so far have not been able to determine who is flying the drones and for what reason.
COMPLETE COVERAGE: Drones Over New Jersey
Officials have consistently reiterated that there is no known threat to the public.
The New Jersey Division of Fire Safety and the Newark office of the FBI issued some safety instructions to fire departments that may come across downed drones. They warn that the drones should not be approached and that firefighters should stay back at least 300 feet in all directions.
Crews are advised to wear protective gear and to request a hazmat team and/or bomb squad.
Officials also say electronic devices and two-way radio systems may malfunction in the immediate area around the drone.
The FBI asks that residents share any videos or photos they may have of the flights, along with any other relevant information by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting a tip online.