Massachusetts police issue warning as ‘Senior Assassin' game returns

Yahoo

28-04-2025

SHARON, Mass. (WWLP) – A police department in Massachusetts sent out a warning as a game that has become a popular annual tradition for high school seniors, known as 'Senior Assassin,' gets underway.
The game is played in advance of graduation, where senior students use water guns, or other safe 'weapons' like Nerf guns, to eliminate their assigned targets from the game by squirting them with water. The last student standing who avoids being eliminated typically wins a prize and bragging rights.
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While it is meant to be all in fun, the live-action game comes with safety concerns for law enforcement. The Sharon Police Department said on Monday that they do not condone this game and are committed to keeping residents informed, ensuring safety.
If you are planning to play, here are some safety tips from the police:
Do not play the game on school property: Any game that disrupts the learning environment is not acceptable on campus.
No look-alike weapons: Realistic toy weapons, including water guns that resemble firearms, are prohibited on school property and in the surrounding community.
Respect private property: Do not trespass onto or into others' properties. If you are asked to leave someone's property, please do so promptly and without confrontation.
Use brightly colored water guns: To help ensure that your toy is easily identifiable, use brightly colored, non-threatening water guns.
Avoid hiding in dark or secluded areas: Carrying anything that could be mistaken for a firearm, including toys or accessories, or hiding in dark places is a recipe for disaster.
No masks or camouflage: To avoid alarming the public, do not wear masks or camouflage clothing, as these can make it difficult to distinguish between a harmless game and a potentially dangerous situation.
If approached by law enforcement, do not run or hide: If you are approached by the police, remain calm, and explain that you are participating in a game. Clear communication can help avoid confusion and potential escalation.
In Florida this year, law enforcement held a news conference to talk about the dangers of 'Senior Assassin' after a Jacksonville high school football player was shot by an off-duty officer while the teen was playing the game. Fortunately, the student was not seriously hurt.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
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