Police Warn About Dangers Of 'Assassin Game' Viral Senior Challenge

NORTH CASTLE, NY — Police say that a relatively new senior rite of passage could have tragic consequences. Authorities are urging parents and students to stop, before someone gets hurt.

The North Castle Police Department has issued a community alert about a game played by area high school students, sometimes called the "Assassin Game."

The game, popular among graduating seniors, typically begins near the end of the academic year, and it involves students trying to eliminate other players from the game by shooting each other with water guns, NERF guns, or hitting them with water balloons until only one student remains.

The game is played outside of school hours, and away from school grounds, but participants may attempt to locate other students involved at almost any other location, including private homes, parks, and businesses, according to police. Students playing the game will also often hide or attempt to conceal themselves, enter private property without permission, or drive dangerously to catch their "target."

"The Police Department does not support or condone this game or how it is played," the North Castle Police Department said in their safety alert. "The water guns and NERF guns used to play the game can easily be mistaken for real firearms, and seeing teens carrying these items and chasing each other cannot only be alarming, but potentially tragic."

North Castle police said they have responded to reports of armed subjects, trespassing subjects, and other suspicious activity, only to learn that the subjects involved were students playing the game.

"These calls generate a significant Police response which can be dangerous for the officers, innocent bystanders, and the students playing the game," North Castle Police said in the May 7 alert. "The Police Department responded to one of these calls yesterday in Armonk. Six North Castle Police Officers and multiple Officers from our neighbors at the Town of New Castle Police Department responded to investigate. The call was ultimately determined to be part of this game. We strongly encourage parents to talk to their children about the dangers associated with carrying water guns or NERF guns that resemble or could be interpreted as real firearms, being on private property without permission, or acting in an otherwise dangerous manner. We request that all students be mindful of their actions and their impact on the community."

Police are asking neighbors to report any suspicious activity by calling 914-273-9500 or 911, even if you believe it may be related to this game.

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