Although the club is not pointing fingers, there are suspicions among other prominent members of the small, pico-ballooning enthusiasts community.
Source: Hobby Club’s Missing Balloon Feared Shot Down By USAF | Aviation Week Network
The US likely spent over $1 million to shoot down a 32″ diameter mylar balloon and APRS position reporting system tracker. This balloon likely cost less than $500.
At this rate, the US will go bankrupt shooting down low cost enemy balloons.
