In Union County, North Carolina, a "dangerous" social media trend dubbed "Senior Assassin" has drawn attention after multiple reports of high school students engaging in concerning behavior. Sheriff Eddie Cathey has issued a stark warning, calling on parents to intervene amidst a string of incidents involving teenagers with water guns resembling real firearms.
"Senior Assassin", as it's known, entails students ambushing their peers with these water guns, many a time leading to confusion that could escalate into actual danger. The participants, often in dark attire and masks, have been spotted lurking around homes and businesses, triggering responses from local law enforcement. In a statement obtained by WSOCTV, Sheriff Cathey implored, "Parents, We Need Your Help! Please speak to your teens about the serious risks of this game. Carrying water guns that resemble real weapons in public or private places can lead to confusion, fear, and dangerous situations."
This plea from law enforcement comes in the wake of deputies responding to several specific incidents within the Weddington, Waxhaw, and Wesley Chapel areas. The Union County Sheriff's Office disclosed to QCNews that they witnessed teens donned in dark clothing and masks, acting suspiciously, and carrying the stated water guns, raising alarms about their intentions.
A case that notably illustrates the potential risks was detailed by WBTV. On March 12, deputies say, they encountered two students clad in all black, strategically poised along a residence on Crane Road in Waxhaw. The students were allegedly plotting to douse a classmate with water as she returned home. "Thankfully, deputies arrived first and were able to intervene before the situation escalated," a spokesperson noted.
