TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The U.S. Department of Defense issued a statement about the recent spike in drone sightings across the country.
The FBI has received more than 5,000 reports of drone sightings over recent weeks, and nearly 100 generated leads are under investigation.
“Having closely examined the technical data and tips from concerned citizens, we assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and stars mistakenly reported as drones,” reads a statement from the U.S. Department of Defense.
However, several viewers contacted ‘8 On Your Side’ with more questions and concerns.
Gazing up at the night sky is now a focal point of conversation.
Reports of drone sightings across the country are climbing, including several that have been spotted in Tampa Bay.
“Definitely keep your eyes to the sky,” said Diego Paul, a St. Petersburg resident. “There’s something interesting happening.”