Missing Radioactive Material in New Jersey Sparks Panic — Are Drones ‘Hunting for It’?

A small amount of radioactive material went missing in New Jersey earlier this month, raising concerns over public safety and potential security risks. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) confirmed on December 2, 2024, that a damaged and empty shipping container was discovered after transit. The container, which once held a GE-68 Pin Source used for calibrating PET scanners in hospitals, has sparked widespread speculation and unease.

The NRC emphasized that the missing radioactive material, classified as “less than Category 3” and potentially shielded to Category 4, poses limited risk if handled properly. However, experts have cautioned that any radioactive material, if misused or mishandled, could become hazardous. Authorities are working to investigate the cause of the disappearance while also assessing potential risks to public safety.

Drone Sightings Intensify Speculation

In the days following the incident, reports of unusual drone activity over parts of New Jersey have added a new layer of mystery. Witnesses have observed multiple drones operating at low altitudes, sparking speculation that they may be connected to the search for the missing material.

While officials have not confirmed any link between the drone activity and the disappearance, the timing has fueled theories of a coordinated operation. Some residents expressed concerns about whether these drones are part of a surveillance effort or if other parties are involved.

A spokesperson for the NRC declined to comment on the drone reports, stating only that investigations into the missing material remain ongoing. “At this time, there is no evidence suggesting foul play, but we are committed to ensuring public safety and determining the cause of this incident,” the spokesperson added.

Public Concerns and Online Reactions

The news of the missing radioactive material has generated a wave of reactions on social media. Some users expressed panic, while others questioned how such an incident could occur in a regulated system.

• @JimFergusonUK: “🚨 RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL MISSING! 🚨 How did this happen, and what’s being done about it? #NewJersey”
• @DroneHunter54: “So drones suddenly appear after radioactive stuff goes missing? Something doesn’t add up here.”
• @HealthWatchNow: “The NRC says it’s ‘low risk,’ but radioactive material in the wrong hands is NEVER okay!”
• @ConcernedMom23: “Missing radioactive material and drones? I don’t feel safe. We need answers NOW.”
• @RealPatriot84: “First drones, now this? Our government has some explaining to do. What’s really going on?”
• @MedTechInsider: “A GE-68 Pin Source isn’t catastrophic, but why is it missing? Major failure in security.”

The mix of concern, confusion, and skepticism reflects growing unease surrounding the incident and the broader implications for public safety.

Authorities Continue Investigation

The NRC is collaborating with local authorities, medical institutions, and shipping companies to locate the missing material and ensure no further incidents occur. Meanwhile, officials urge residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities or findings.

Experts stress that the GE-68 Pin Source, while radioactive, does not pose an immediate danger to the public unless mishandled or removed from its shielding.