Lincoln Police are warning residents about a dangerous trend spreading among local high school students, often referred to as the “Senior Assassin” challenge. The game, typically organized by graduating seniors, involves participants attempting to “eliminate” one another using water guns or similar harmless props.
“Some water and splatter guns look very similar to real weapons, and can be difficult to identify, especially at night in the dark, which can create unnecessary alarm in the community, and possibly lead to a more dangerous situation,” says LPD Public Information Manager Erika Thomas.
The warning comes in the wake of an incident Wednesday evening at Faith Bible Church on S. 84th Street. “The church reported during its youth program the an unknown teenager approached the building wearing goggles and carrying a phone and what appeared to be a handgun,” Thomas says.
A review of surveillance video by officers determined it was a water gun. Thomas says two years ago this month they had two calls for service, which prompted significant police responses, affecting the efficient use of city resources. “What the callers believed to be handguns were ultimately determined to be water and splatter guns,” Thomas says.
“We encourage parents to talk with their kids about the possible consequences of this game so everyone can be safe and have fun.”