Police warn replica guns used in popular ‘Senior Assassin’ game pose risks

Water pistols in the hands of young people are displayed in this file image. (Kirill Ikonnikov/Getty Images)

It’s become a spring tradition for many graduating students, but York Regional Police say the popular “Senior Assassin” game can lead to serious real-world consequences.

Officers are warning residents after seeing a recent return of the game, which usually involves students trying to eliminate participants using water guns, gel blasters or foam dart guns.

Police say the concern is that many of these toys can look like real firearms, creating dangerous situations for both the public and responding officers.

“The community should be aware that when police respond to any call involving a firearm, it is treated as legitimate until an investigation can determine otherwise,” stated York Regional Police.

Authorities are reminding families that replica firearms, air guns and similar toys can lead to criminal charges if used while committing another offence, or if they cause injury or damage.

The service adds, “Police-involved shootings have occurred where the firearm is later determined to have been a replica and the officer has been found to be justified in their actions.”

It’s often difficult to tell if the weapon is real prior to investigation.

Parents are being urged to speak with their teens and monitor their use. Anyone facing an emergency involving a firearm should call 911.