Police Called On Morristown Student Playing 'Senior Assassin' Game: Officials

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown Police got a call Monday afternoon about a person with a firearm, whom officials said was actually a high school senior participating in the "water gun assassin" game.

The town Office of Emergency Management is giving residents a heads-up about the game, and reminding people that students may be seen around town with water pistols. Officials said they are hoping to avoid any escalated confrontations with homeowners who may be surprised to find a teen near their property.

"We must advise that the safest choice to avoid unintended consequences is to not participate," public safety officials said on Tuesday.

This end-of-year "senior assassin" or "water wars" competition is student-organized, and involves the teens trying to tag one another with squirt guns — with the goal of being the last one standing. It's not a tradition unique to Morristown, and other police departments including Randolph and Bridgewater have also warned residents of the game's return this spring.

The game is not sanctioned by the school districts, and students try to surprise one another — so, it could involve them hiding somewhere and even wearing a disguise as they try to ambush a classmate with the water gun.

Officials said that as they understand it, "this game can take place anywhere in town, including residential areas, and at any time of the day."

The Office of Emergency Management also encouraged parents to educate their children about staying safe if they do participate, and to not carry anything that could be mistaken for a firearm.

Authorities said they are informing the public about the game "to prevent any potential misunderstandings or escalated citizens responses, especially those who maybe approved for a concealed carry permit."