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POLICE WARNING OF DANGERS OF “SENIOR ASSASSIN” GAME AND POSSESSION OF REPLICA FIREARMS

Posted on Tuesday May 06, 2025

York Regional Police is warning the community about the “Senior Assassin” game and the dangers of the possession of replica firearms, after five reports of youth carrying what appeared to be firearms.

The “Senior Assassin” game involves students competing to eliminate fellow participants by shooting them with water guns, gel projectiles or foam darts within an allotted time period.

York Regional Police is warning parents and teens that many replica firearms look identical to real guns. Police responding to these weapons calls are often in the position of having to make quick decisions regarding whether the weapon is real, a toy or a replica, which could have significant consequences.

Citizens should be aware that when police respond to any call involving a firearm, it is treated as legitimate until an investigation can determine otherwise.

In light of this, York Regional Police reminds the public of the following:

  • Police-involved shootings have occurred where the firearm is later determined to have been a replica and the officer has been found to be justified in their actions
  • There is often no way to tell if the weapon is real prior to investigation
  • Replica firearms, air guns, gel guns or toy guns used in the commission of another offence are considered legitimate weapons and those responsible will face significant criminal charges 
  • If you damage property or injure a person or animal by discharging an air gun, you could be subject to criminal charges in addition to civil liability
  • Residents must seriously consider the risks and responsibilities involved in owning any item that fires projectiles
  • For the safety of our communities, we strongly discourage the purchase and use of these items in our region
  • If you do have access to these types of guns, parents are strongly encouraged to monitor their children’s use of them

To report a possible emergency related to firearms, call 9-1-1. Call 1-866-876-5423, ext.7008 for non-emergencies. You can also share information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
                    May 6, 2025