A springtime tradition known as “Senior Assassins” or “Paranoia” is once again drawing warnings from police departments in several suburbs across the country, as the game’s tactics spark safety concerns.
What is the ‘Senior Assassins’ game?
The game, typically played by high school seniors near the end of the academic year, involves students “eliminating” each other by shooting water guns or Nerf guns at assigned targets. The goal is to be the last student remaining in the game.
Park Ridge police in Bergen County issued an alert about the game earlier this month, asking people to prioritize safety.
A teen was shot in Kansas last year while participating in the game.
In a community alert issued this week, the village of Northfield Police Department in Illinois cautioned residents and students about the potential dangers of the game.
“The Police Department is sharing a community alert regarding a game played by area high school students called ‘Paranoia,’” the statement said. “It involves students trying to eliminate other players from the game by shooting each other with water guns or NERF guns.”
While intended as a lighthearted rite of passage, the game has raised alarm due to its resemblance to real-world threats. Officers warn that realistic-looking water guns can be mistaken for actual firearms, potentially leading to dangerous misunderstandings.
“Participating students may trespass, wear masks, or use suspicious behavior while hiding or ambushing targets,” the alert added.
Police departments are urging students to play responsibly and for parents to speak with their children about the risks involved. Some schools have also issued their own warnings, reminding students that the game is not permitted on school grounds.
Despite the warnings, the game remains popular across the country, especially among high school seniors looking for a final, adrenaline-filled bonding experience before graduation. But law enforcement agencies say the fun should never come at the expense of safety.
“This is about preventing unnecessary panic or harm,” Northfield police said. “We’re asking everyone to be aware and cautious.”
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: ‘Senior Assassins’ game leads to warnings issued by police
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