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The Park Ridge Police Department in New Jersey issued a warning on Saturday, April 12, about the game "Assassins." The game, which is widely played by high school seniors and upperclassmen across the United States, involved players sneaking up on peers outside of school hours and spraying them with water guns.
While the game is not illegal, officers say it can be deeply alarming for people who don’t realize what’s happening — especially when students are seen lurking with water guns while wearing ski masks.
“Onlookers have become alarmed when seeing actor(s) sneaking around with a ‘possible weapon’ in their hands,” Park Ridge police said. “This creates a dangerous situation because a Good Samaritan might believe they are subduing a criminal.”
In some cases, police have responded to what looked like an active threat, only to find out it was just a round of the game in progress.
In Jacksonville, FL, a student was shot in the arm by an off-duty law enforcement officer earlier this year, who mistook the student's water gun for a real firearm, the Jacksonville Florida Times-Union said citing the county sheriff.
The game’s unofficial rules often prohibit playing during school hours or on school property, but that hasn’t stopped calls from concerned residents.
Though police and schools do not condone the game, they reiterated that it is not illegal. Still, the department is asking for students to think twice before taking part.
“Please prioritize safety, use common sense, and make respectful decisions to ensure continued innocent fun for all,” the Park Ridge PD said.
"We still encourage the public to call 9-1-1 if suspicious behavior is observed - do not assume it is part of the game." police said. "While we understand the excitement and tradition behind the game, please prioritize safety, use common sense and make respectful decisions to ensure continued innocent fun for all."
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