Guelph Police warn about risks linked to ‘Senior Assassin’ game

A generic image of a fake gun. (Pexels/Polina Tankilevitc)

Guelph Police are warning the public about the dangers of a popular game in which youth use replica firearms and pretend to “assassinate” each other.

The game, often referred to as “Senior Assassin,” is a social media trend that has gained popularity in communities across the province.

According to police, the game involves high school students attempting to eliminate fellow participants by shooting them with water guns or other projectiles within a set period of time.

Police said the game is often played at all hours of the day and night.

Many of the replica firearms used closely resemble real weapons, raising concerns among members of the public and prompting significant police responses.

“Officers responding to such calls must treat them as if the firearms in question are real until proven otherwise, potentially causing safety concerns for the community including players of the game,” police said in a news release.

Police added that responding to these calls can divert resources away from legitimate emergencies.

On Friday at approximately 8:20 p.m., officers responded to a business near Gordon Street and Clair Road after a witness reported two young males outside a rear door. One appeared to be holding a handgun while the other was filming on a cellphone.

They left the area before officers arrived and were not located.

During the weekend officers also observed teenagers wearing swimming goggles in public, which is said to protect the wearers from being eliminated from the game.Police also reported seeing teenagers wearing swimming goggles in public over the weekend — something associated with the game, as goggles can protect players from being eliminated.

“Parents are also encouraged to speak to their children to ensure they understand the risks of using replica firearms in public,” police said.