the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Franklin Lakes NJ, recent police response to masked teens carrying realistic-looking water guns has prompted urgent warnings from Franklin Lakes and Wyckoff police about the dangers of the increasingly popular “Senior Assassin” game among graduating high school seniors.
Officers were dispatched last week to investigate a report of suspicious individuals in ski masks near a roadway in Franklin Lakes. What they encountered were local teens participating in the so-called Senior Assassin game, wielding water pistols that closely resembled real firearms — a situation that could have quickly escalated.
What Is the “Senior Assassin” Game?
The “Senior Assassin” game, sometimes called “The Assassination Game” or “TAG”, involves high school seniors targeting each other with water guns, often while disguised or under cover of night, with the last player standing declared the winner.
Though the game dates back to the 1980s and was once played with socks or paintball guns, today’s version has become more alarming due to the realistic appearance of toy weapons and the heightened concerns surrounding school safety and gun violence.
Police Response and Community Warning
The Wyckoff Police Department, which assisted in the recent incident, released a firm public safety message urging parents and students to reconsider participation in the game.
“Officers observed juveniles matching the description provided by the caller, carrying water pistols that closely resembled real firearms,” the department stated. “These activities pose a significant risk to the general public and our officers.”
Officials emphasized that responding to reports of suspicious activity involving potential weapons diverts resources from real emergencies and puts lives at risk.
Message to Students and Parents
Authorities specifically called on students from Ramapo and Indian Hills High Schools, which serve Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, and Oakland, to use sound judgment and avoid risky behaviors.
“This is a time of celebration for our graduating seniors. We strongly discourage any activity that may endanger lives — including their own,” Wyckoff Police wrote in their message.
Parents are encouraged to have open conversations with their children about the dangers of participating in such games and to foster safe, responsible decision-making.
Similar Incidents in North Jersey
This warning follows a string of similar events in Mahwah and Glen Rock, where police were also dispatched after residents reported seeing young people with guns.
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Mahwah Police recently issued a public safety alert regarding “several” calls about teens with weapons.
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Glen Rock Police made a similar plea last year, urging parents to address the issue at home before tragedy strikes.
Why the Concern?
In recent years, “Senior Assassin” games have led to serious injuries and accidental shootings across the country. What may seem like harmless fun can be misinterpreted by law enforcement or the public, especially in today’s climate of heightened alert regarding school threats.
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