Local high schools investigate dangerous water gun game causing public safety concerns

The City Council of Sylvania convened on April 21, 2025, to address a concerning trend among local high school students involving a game known as "senior assassin." This game, initially presented as a harmless water gun competition, escalated into dangerous situations that prompted police intervention.

During the meeting, Chief of Police reported incidents that occurred the previous Thursday, where students engaged in the game led to multiple calls for police assistance. One alarming incident involved a student dressed in dark clothing, hiding near a business with a water pistol, which resulted in officers responding with drawn weapons. Another incident saw students chasing each other in vehicles while shooting water guns across busy streets, creating a hazardous environment.

The Chief emphasized that while the game itself is not illegal, it poses significant risks when played in public spaces or without proper oversight. He noted that the game had rules intended to keep it safe, such as prohibiting play in the dark or on private property, but these were not followed. The potential for serious injury or worse was a primary concern for law enforcement.

In response to these events, the police department collaborated with local school officials to address the situation. A press release was issued to raise awareness among parents and the community about the dangers associated with the game. The video of one of the police encounters went viral, garnering over 80,000 views, which further highlighted the issue and sparked discussions among parents who were previously unaware of the game's risks.

Council members expressed their support for the police's swift actions and discussed the importance of educating both students and parents about the dangers of such games. They acknowledged that many parents were not fully informed about the nature of the game and its potential consequences.

As a precautionary measure, the schools involved are in the process of returning any prize money that was promised to participants, effectively putting an end to the game. The council underscored the need for ongoing communication with parents to ensure they are aware of their children's activities and the associated risks.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from both the police and school officials to work together to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing the importance of safety in the community.