Tensions are high in several Chicago-area suburbs following incidents related to the "Senior Assassins" game, a nationwide trend among graduating high school students. Local police departments have issued warnings after a dangerous mix-up in Gurnee, where students, donning ski masks and wielding water guns resembling firearms, were mistaken for genuine threats at a restaurant.
According to WGN-TV, a concealed-carry holder in the establishment could have escalated the situation upon misinterpreting the game for a real-life danger. The Gurnee Police Department has cautioned the community, stating, "The depiction of firearms, whether real or imitation, in any public setting, is a matter of concern and may instill fear among the public." They are urging potential players to recognize the seriousness of their actions. Incidents such as these may warrant disorderly conduct charges, the department added.
Senior Assassins involves teams that "tag" opponents with water guns to "eliminate" them from the game, often involving disguises such as masks. While the game's rules prohibit play during school hours or on school property, players seek out their targets in various community locales, including parks, homes, and restaurants, as detailed by NBC Chicago. Suburbs like Bartlett and Arlington Heights have seen students chase targets through yards, hide in unexpected places, and make sudden appearances either on foot or by vehicle.
With the game set to officially begin on April 14 in Bartlett, local authorities there are strongly advising against trespassing or any illegal activities associated with Senior Assassins. Police responses to 911 calls about suspicious masked individuals or vehicles have been documented, heightening the communal concern. Some of these reports also involved participants driving on lawns, or brandishing water guns that looked like real handguns, creating a challenge for responding officers to discern play from potential crime.
In light of these incidents, authorities do not condone the game and have communicated their concerns to school officials. While not illegal, the unintended consequences of such actions are being taken very seriously. "We ask everyone to play safely, use common sense and recognize how players’ actions may be perceived by members of the community," said Arlington Heights police in an alert. Parents are encouraged to discuss the game with their children, ensuring they understand the game's potential for real-world complications and the critical importance of perception in matters of public safety.
