Authorities Dismiss Theories Linking Drones to Lost Radioactive Material

Rumors circulated online suggesting drones were involved in the search for missing radioactive cargo in New Jersey, but officials have put those speculations to rest.

The missing item was a component from a medical device used in PET scanners, known as a pin source, which holds a radioactive substance. Fortunately, this component has now been located and secured.

Origins of the Drone Speculation

Belleville's Mayor, Michael Melham, was among those who suggested a connection between the drones—observed over various eastern states—and the search for the lost material. During a briefing, he noted his perspective that the drones’ grid-like flight patterns indicated they were searching for something specific.

Yet, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection representatives confirmed to CBS News that drones were not utilized in the recovery of the radioactive material.

Incident Details and Official Reports

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission reported that the pin source, lost during transport from Nazha Cancer Center in New Jersey, was inadvertently left at a FedEx location before its recovery. It contained Germanium-68, a low-level radioactive isotope, and was rediscovered and returned to the manufacturer.

Spread of Misinformation via Social Media

Contributing to the speculation, a Kansas-based drone manufacturer, John Ferguson, posted a TikTok video implying that drones could be detecting gases or radioactive materials. This video went viral with many users speculating a link to the missing equipment, although Ferguson himself claimed he was unaware of the shipment at the time of posting.

Clarification from Government Agencies

The National Nuclear Security Administration and other branches have clarified that the use of drones in nuclear detection is not currently part of their operational protocol, with other specialized teams utilizing aircraft for such purposes. Nevertheless, ongoing studies are assessing how drones might aid in detecting radiation.

Additionally, the FBI, alongside Homeland Security and other agencies, has recorded over 5,000 recent reports of drone activity, emphasizing the proliferation of these devices but denying their involvement in tracking radioactive material.