Many high school seniors look for ways to celebrate their final days in school — and for some, that tradition includes a game called Senior Assassin. At first glance, it may seem like harmless fun: a water or nerf gun battle filled with sneak attacks, laughter, and friendly competition. But with teens disguising themselves and racing through neighborhoods at odd hours, this game has raised serious safety concerns for communities and law enforcement alike. As the popularity of Senior Assassin grows, so do the risks. This SmartSocial guide will tell parents what Senior Assassin is, the dangers involved, and how to talk to teens about this popular game.

Teens, Toy Guns & 911 Calls: The Hidden Dangers of the Senior Assassin Trend (Parent video)

What is Senior Assassin?

• Senior Assassin is a game often played by high school seniors at the end of their senior year before graduation
• The game is typically an organized nerf gun or water gun battle that could last weeks, slowly elimating all players until the last player or team is left as the winner
• Players stalk each other throughout the day by hiding in bushes, jumping out of cars, or waiting outside homes to score points or eliminate their competition by tagging their classmates
• While it may sound like an exciting challenge, the reality is this game has led to dangerous and even deadly situations

Is Senior Assassin dangerous?

• Police departments across the country have issued public safety warnings about this trend
• Teens dressed in black and running through neighborhoods at night, are often mistaken for actual threats, prompting concerned residents to call 911
• There has been instances of high schoolers almost being arrested when mistaken for criminals while merely participating in the game and the risks don't end there
• Teens playing Senior Assassin have been injured in car accidents while chasing or evading other players. They've trespassed on private property, which poses legal risks
• In today's climate of rising gun violence concerns, even toy guns can be mistaken for real weapons, creating potentially terrifying situations for both law enforcement and communities (Source: 13 ABC, WTVG, Toledo)

What Parents Can Do

• ‍Have a Conversation: Speak with your teen about using common sense when playing, the potential risks involved in the game, and discuss what could go wrong. Open communication can go a long way in raising awareness about safety‍
• Know the Rules: Be aware of the rules of the game. Each school has their own rules, but some versions ban play during school hours or after dark, but these rules are often ignored. Encourage your school to proactively discuss the impact this game can have on students' school life‍
• Educate on Optics: Inform your teen that a toy gun in public can escalate into a real-life tragedy. It's crucial for them to understand that not everyone is aware of the game, including law enforcement officers
• Eliminate the Confusion: Encourage students to use brightly colored water guns or nerf guns if participating in the Senior Assassin game

Additional Resources

What is the Superman Challenge?

TikTok Blackout Challenge

Nudify App Dangers: What Parents Need to Know‍

Conclusion

Senior Assassin might seem like harmless fun, but the risks — from injuries to legal trouble — are very real. What’s meant to be a lighthearted tradition can quickly have tragic outcomes. Parents and schools play a key role in raising awareness, setting boundaries, and helping teens understand the serious consequences.