Police warn about dangers of replica firearms used by teens in 'Senior Assassin' game
Many replica firearms look identical to real guns, York Regional Police say in warning
York Regional Police are warning parents and teenagers about the dangers of replica firearms and a game called "Senior Assassin" after police received five reports of young people carrying what appeared to be guns.
In a news release on Tuesday, police said the game involves students who compete to eliminate other participants by shooting them with water guns, gel projectiles or foam darts within an allotted time period.
Police said many replica firearms look identical to real guns. And when police respond to weapons calls, they often have to make quick decisions about whether a weapon is real, a toy or a replica and the consequences could be significant, police said.
"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," police said in the release.
The five reports, received since April 27, involved incidents in Richmond Hill, Markham, Stouffville and Newmarket. Police said they want to ensure that the public is safe leading into the end of the school year.
Police discourage use of replica guns in York Region
Police said officers have fired their guns in situations where a firearm is later determined to have been a replica and the officer was found to be justified in their actions.
"There is often no way to tell if the weapon is real prior to investigation," police said in the release. "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."
Anyone who damages property or injures a person or animal by discharging an air gun could be subject to criminal charges as well as civil liability, police said.
Police added the residents should seriously consider the risks and responsibilities that comes with owning any item that can fire a projectile.
"For the safety of our communities, we strongly discourage the purchase and use of these items in our region," police said in the release.
Police said they strongly encourage parents to monitor their children's use of these types of guns if they have access to them.