Home / Health / Keyport Cancer Fears: Plant Site Blamed, State Disagrees
Keyport Cancer Fears: Plant Site Blamed, State Disagrees
18 Sep
Summary
- Keyport residents claim 400 cancer cases linked to former aircraft plant.
- Independent tests show elevated carcinogens on some local properties.
- State DEP states no contamination and disputes cancer cluster designation.
Residents in Keyport, New Jersey, have voiced serious concerns about a possible cancer cluster, with some individuals claiming to have identified 400 cancer cases in their community. They suspect a former aircraft manufacturing plant, the Aeromarine site, as the source of contamination.
Independent testing conducted by scientist Scott Smith on surrounding properties revealed elevated levels of known carcinogens, including benzo(a)pyrene, lead, and dioxins, particularly on properties like that of resident Sal Liguori. This testing was commissioned by residents who questioned the transparency of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) own investigations.
In contrast, the DEP has stated that recent tests conducted by their department show no drinking water or soil contamination at the site. The state agency also maintains that there is no official designation for a cancer cluster in the area. The DEP plans to hold a meeting on September 22, 2026, to address the Keyport contamination concerns.
While both independent testers and residents believe more investigation is needed, the DEP has not yet confirmed a link between the site and the reported health issues. The next phase of testing, which includes groundwater sampling, is scheduled to begin on September 19, 2026.
